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Research suggests that guava fruits and leaves may have a number of health benefits. Possible benefits of guava include reducing menstrual cramps, treating flu, lowering blood pressure, and more. In some cases though, more research is necessary.
Guava is a traditional remedy for a range of health conditions.
Guavas are tropical fruits with yellowish-green skin, and they grow on trees in Central America. The Latin name for the common guava tree is Psidium guajava.
People use guava leaf tea as a treatment for diarrhea in several countries, including India and China. In other countries, such as Mexico, people have traditionally used the flesh of the fruit to heal wounds.
In this article, we explore some potential health benefits and uses of guava. We also describe nutritional information, risks, and how to incorporate guava into the diet.
Guava fruit is a nutritious and healthful food that is rich in several important nutrients.
According to the
- 68 calories
- 14.32 g of carbohydrates
- 8.92 g of sugars
- 0.95 g of fat
- 5.4 g of dietary fiber
- 417 mg of potassium
- 228.3 mg of vitamin C
- 624 international units of vitamin A
Guava leaf tea may help prevent spikes in blood sugar and improve symptoms in people with type 2 diabetes.
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These benefits may result from compounds in guava leaf extract helping to moderate glucose absorption after a person eats a meal.
Taking supplements containing guava leaf extract may reduce menstrual cramps.
The results of a
Participants who took 6 milligrams (mg) of the extract each day experienced less menstrual pain than those taking ibuprofen or a placebo.
Guava leaf tea is a traditional remedy for diarrhea in many parts of the world.
Evidence from animal studies suggests that the leaf extract may have the potential to treat infectious diarrhea.
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However, scientists need to carry out more research to confirm these findings in humans.
Drinking guava leaf tea may help people fight off the flu.
In a
The antiviral effect of the tea may result from the leaf’s flavanols, which are a natural antioxidant.
Confirming the effects in humans will require further research.
Consuming guava leaf extract may help lower high blood pressure.
A 2016 test tube study found that the extract had an antihypertensive effect in rat tissues, which means that it may have the potential to reduce blood pressure.
This effect may be due to the leaf extract’s antioxidant properties. Antioxidants may lower blood pressure by helping to expand blood vessels.
However, scientists need to carry out more studies to determine whether guava leaf extract can reduce high blood pressure in humans.
Some research in animals suggests that guava leaf extract may benefit people with osteoarthritis.
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Guava leaf extract may eventually play a role in cancer treatment.
Results of a
The researchers believe that the effect may occur because guava leaf compounds act like selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs).
SERMs are a class of drugs that doctors use to treat cancer. They work by preventing cancer cells from multiplying.
However, scientists need to conduct clinical trials in humans to better understand the potential for these compounds to combat cancer.
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However, there is not enough evidence to rule out the possibility. Any remedies or supplements that do not have Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval may cause adverse effects.
Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a doctor before taking guava leaf extract.
It is not clear whether this extract can interact with medications. Anyone using medicines on an ongoing basis should speak to a doctor before trying a new remedy.
Some people enjoy sliced guava, either on its own or with yogurt. Others use the fruit in smoothies or add guava leaves to boiled water to create an herbal tea.
Some recipe ideas for guava include:
Many health stores sell dietary supplements that contain guava leaf extract. A person usually takes these daily, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
It is also advisable to speak to a doctor before taking any new dietary supplement, especially when trying to treat a specific health issue.
Various guava dietary supplements are available to purchase online.
Guava is a traditional remedy for a number of ailments.
Preliminary research suggests that compounds in guava leaf extract may have a positive effect on a range of illnesses and symptoms, including menstrual cramps, diarrhea, the flu, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
However, scientists need to carry out further studies in humans to confirm and better understand these findings.