Sometime ago, we talked about the soursop. Today we meet its sweeter relative- the sweetsop- otherwise known as the “sugar apple”. Like the soursop, the typical Caribbean sweetsop has a peculiar looking rind- all knobby. It’s normally green (some are red) when green and turns a bit yellow-green when ripe.   Most people tend to pick the fruits when they are just on the verge of turning ripe for fear of birds or the fruit splitting in half if it becomes a bit too ripe.   The sugar apple has a white and sweet pulp contained in segments. These segments of pulp hold many black seeds. The fruit, as its name implies, is very sweet- like sugar.

I grew up knowing grownups did something with sugar apple leaves.  I just couldn’t remember what.  Then, after discussions with several elderly people who know everything there is to know about “bush medicine”, I realized that a tea made from sugar apple leaves is generally thought a good treatment for both diabetes and hypertension. This tea is also considered quite the remedy for a cold and to battle digestive problems. And, this tea, made a bit stronger is also thought to be a good ‘cleanser’ or purgative.

Tea aside, the leaves are used, crushed, to treat ulcers, abscesses, wounds and itching skin. In addition, the leaves, which are quite aromatic when crushed, are used to rouse someone who has fainted. Those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis also turn to the leaves.  A “bush bath” of sugar apple leaves- sugar apple leaves boiled, then added to the bath- is supposed to relieve rheumatic pain. Moreover, crushed sugar apple leaves as well as a powder made of the black seeds (which are poisonous) mixed with a bit of coconut oil are supposed to be effective as a traditional remedy for head and body lice.

Disclaimer:

The contents of this page are meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. Statements published here ought not to be taken as expert medical advice designed to treat/cure any diseases or health related conditions. Please talk to your doctor or any qualified healthcare professional if you need medical advice (Believe me, WE at RE:BELE would!)