The custard apple fruit which is available for a short season (August to October) is one of the most sought after fruits in India. It is made up of a hard green exterior which is non-edible and the main sweet and fleshy fruit is revealed upon cutting open the exterior. While the custard apple has countless health benefits like being rich in antioxidants and minerals like calciumand potassium, its leaves are equally nutritious. They are prized for their health benefits especially in Ayurveda.

The leaves are often used for medicinal purposes due to their quick healing capability. They could be applied directly on to the skin or could be used as a combination with other ingredients. Boiling the leaves and consuming them is believed to be quite beneficial. Ayurvedic expert, Dr. BN Sinha suggests the following benefits of custard apple leaves.

1. Regulates sugar in the body 
Packed with fibers, the leaves are known to slow down the absorption of sugar in our body and thus, they help in keeping the blood sugar levels in check. Since fiber is digested slowly, over a period of time, it does not cause sudden spikes in your blood sugar levels and thus, helps in keeping your digestive tract working well. 2-3 leaves can be boiled in water and then the mixture can be consumed every morning for best results.

2. Prevents aging of the skin
The leaves are rich in antioxidants that protect your skin from sun damage and delay the aging of cells. A herbal tea made with simmering custard apple leaves in water can be consumed once a day to ensure optimum benefits for the skin.

4.Gives the body overall strength and power
Boiling the leaves in half a cup of water and consuming the mixture every morning keeps your metabolism rate and energy levels up through the day. It helps in flushing out the toxins from your body and you feel more energetic and powerful.

5.Heals wounds
The juice of the leaves can be applied to heal wounds as it has anti-inflammatory properties and a soothing effect.