Characterization of phenolic compounds from Annona muricata leaf and pulp

Abstract The present study characterizes the phenolic compounds present in the pulp of Annona muricata (guanábana), a species widely used in Latin America in both food and traditional medicine. Methanolic extractions of the pulp were performed to identify and quantify secondary metabolites using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques and qualitative phytochemical tests. The results show the significant presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, with shikimic acid as the main phenolic component identified. Soursop stands out for its potential therapeutic applications, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and for its potential in the development of nutraceutical products. This study contributes to the knowledge of the bioactive metabolites of A. muricata, promoting their valorization in human nutrition and health contexts.