Is the sugar apple (Annona squamosa) cold-natured or hot-natured?

　　Soursop, also known as custard apple. Under normal circumstances, custard apple is considered cold in nature. The detailed explanation is as follows:

　　From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, the properties of fruits are associated with the balance of yin and yang in the body. Cold-natured foods, such as custard apple, have effects of clearing heat, relieving summerheat, promoting production of saliva, and moistening dryness. Its cold nature provides a cooling sensation when consumed during hot weather, helping to regulate body temperature and alleviate discomfort caused by heat. This cooling sensation comes from certain components in custard apple that stimulate the nervous system, producing a physiological effect similar to lowering body temperature.

　　Custard apple is not only cold in nature, but also rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and dietary fiber. These nutrients play important roles in enhancing immunity, promoting digestion, and maintaining heart health. Due to its cold nature, excessive consumption may lead to an excess of internal coldness, particularly in individuals with a cold body constitution, possibly causing discomfort. Therefore, when consuming custard apple, it is important to maintain moderation to avoid adverse effects on the body caused by excessive intake.

　　The ripeness of custard apple affects its edibility. Unripe custard apples may have a bitter taste, which can affect the flavor. Therefore, ripe fruits should be selected for consumption.