Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Ilama leaves contain bioactive terpenoids like geranylgeraniol and phytol, which exhibit anticancer activity by inducing late apoptosis and necrosis in leukemia cells. This mechanism primarily involves increasing reactive oxygen species production and oxidative stress.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Ilama (Annona diversifolia), a tropical fruit, is native to Central America, particularly Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. It thrives in well-drained, nutrient-rich tropical soils with warm, humid conditions. Traditionally revered in Mesoamerican and Mayan medicine, it is valued for its potent antioxidant, immune-boosting, and metabolic-regulating properties.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Scientific studies support Ilama's antioxidant, metabolic, and neuroprotective effects. Research also validates its role in gut health and immune modulation, highlighting its broad spectrum of functional benefits.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
- Prebiotic fibers and digestive enzymes for enhanced nutrient absorption and microbiome health. - Vitamins A, C, and E for immune response, collagen synthesis, and cellular longevity. - Essential minerals: Calcium, magnesium, and potassium for bone density, muscle function, and electrolyte balance. - Phytochemicals: Flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids, tannins, and saponins for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol regulation.
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
The leaves of Annona macroprophylla, commonly known as Ilama, contain bioactive terpenoids such as geranylgeraniol (Gg), phytol (PT), and farnesyl acetate (FA). In preclinical studies, Gg and PT induce late apoptosis and necrosis in U-937 human leukemia cells by significantly increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, leading to substantial oxidative stress. This oxidative stress is a key driver for programmed cell death in these cells.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Current research on the anticancer properties of Ilama compounds is primarily based on preclinical, in vitro studies using human leukemia U-937 cell lines. These studies have demonstrated that isolated bioactive terpenoids like geranylgeraniol and phytol from Ilama leaves induce late apoptosis and necrosis in these cancer cells. While these findings suggest significant therapeutic potential, human clinical trials are essential to validate efficacy and safety in vivo.
Also Known As
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