Almost 7,500 different types of apples exist on the planet, but you’ve probably only eaten a few. Outside of the gala and granny smith variety, the custard apple has many benefits to offer.
You get to enjoy its leaves as well. Also known as soursop, parts of the custard apple benefit us in many ways. It’s time to learn how how to use soursop leaves.
Soursop is a tropical fruit native to the Americas. Its flesh and leaves contain 12 vitamins and minerals, including calcium and vitamin C. Soursop also helps the body fight bacteria.
Tannins, phytosterols, and antioxidants work to protect the body’s overall health.
Are you wondering how to use soursop leaves? Check out this helpful list of information on the benefits and uses of soursop leaves.
How to Use Soursop Leaves to Make Tea
Soursop leaf tea is more than a flavored beverage. It’s an immune system-bosting drink.
Soursop tea has anti-cancer properties and helps treat infections and cold. Research shows the tea also helps with weight loss and inflammation in the body.
The best part about it is that it’s caffeine-free and increases relaxation. Here’s how to make it:
- Gather 2 to 3 soursop leaves (wash them).
- Pour 1 cup of spring water into a pot.
- Bring the pot to a boil.
- Place the leaves into the bottom of a teacup.
- Pour the water over the leaves and cover the cup.
- draw the tea for about 30 minutes before drinking.
Some people sweeten their tea with cane sugar or agave nectar. Others like the natural taste of the tea as it is.
Enjoy Some Soursop Juice
Soursop juice is a tropical drink the West Indians love. It’s also becoming an American treat as well for vacationers and beach bums.
During the hot summers, people drink soursop juice as a cool refreshing drink. This vitamin C-packed treat helps calm the nerves and promote rest. Drinking it at night helps with a good night’s sleep.
Gather these ingredients and make the juice this way:
- Peel and de-seed 1 large soursop fruit
- Place the fruit in a blender and pulse to break up the fruit
- Add 4 to 6 cups of soursop tea to the blender
- Blend until liquified
- Add 1/4 cup of lime juice and 2 tbsps of agave nectar and pulse
- Strain over a large container and drink
To add more of an island flare, add 1 cup of milk, 1 tsp nutmeg, and 1 tsp of vanilla. Some people turn it into an adult beverage by adding 1 tsp of white rum or cognac.
Prepare Soursop Ginger Soup
Soursop leaves are so versatile you can use them to prepare a meal. After your use the leaves to make tea, use the tea to make soup.
Make it by brewing 1 gallon of soursop leaf tea with 4 to 6 leaves. Remove the leaves from the pot and the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of pasta
- 2 cups of chopped kale
- 2 cups of butternut squash
- 1 cup of zucchini, summer squash, onions, and peppers (green and red)
- 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
Season to taste with sea salt, onion powder, basil, oregano, and cayenne. You may need to add a few more cups of spring water to cover and cook the pasta. Stir the ingredients, reduce the heat, add the lid and cook for about 45 minutes.
Bowl and serve.
Add Soursop Leaves to Your Lifestyle
Forget about wondering how to use soursop leaves. Purchase a small supply and start sipping your way to a healthy body.
Want more health-conscious tips like this? Check out our health guide for the latest on fitness and well-being.
