What are the Uses and Benefits of Guava (Psidium Guajava)??
Introduction
Psidium guajava is also called as guava which belongs to the family Myrtaceae. It is an evergreen tree that grows up to 10 meters in height. It is a pear-shaped fruit which is edible by birds, animals, and humans. Its branches are spread in various directions and provide shelter to various insects and birds.
Names in Different Languages:
- English name: Guava, Govavier, Abas
- Hindi name: Amrud
- Sanskrit name: Perala, Amratafalam
- Punjabi name: Amrut
- Telgu name: Jama, Jam-Pandu, Giya-Pandu
- French name: Goyavier, Gouyave, Goyave
- Arabic name: Guwafah
- Tamil name: Koyapalam, Koyyo, Segapu
Description
The stem of guava is hard, woody and reddish brown in color and the outer part of its bark are pale pinkish with 2 to 4 mm thickness. Its leaves are 210 to 15 mm long and branches have opposite leaves. Flowers are white colored, fragrant and have 4 to 6 incurved petals. Fruits are edible, green in color when raw and yellow in color on ripening. Its roots are shallow. Seeds are cream colored.
Distribution
It is native to Central America and Mexico. It is cultivated in India and many other parts of the world.
Part Used
Leaf, Fruit, Bark, Flower, and Root
Nutrients present in Psidium guajava
Guava is a very nutritious fruit which is low in calories. It contains vitamin C in more quantity than other citrus fruits. It also contains calcium, protein, copper, iron, phosphorous, folic acid, vitamin A, B2, B3 and C. This fruit improves the overall health of the body.
High content of vitamin C in it prevents bacterial and viral infections by improving the immunity of the body.
What are the Ayurvedic Properties of Psidium guajava?
- Rasa (Taste): Kashaya (Astringent), Madhur (Sweet) and amla (Sour)
- Guna (Quality): Tikshna (Sharp) and guru (Heavy)
- Veerya (Potency): Sheet (Cold)
- Vipaka (Metabolism): Madhur (Sweet)
- Prabhav (Effect): Vata-pitta shamaka (it pacifies vata and pitta dosha)
What are the Medicinal Uses of Psidium guajava?
Psidium guajava has many medicinal properties like:
- Antifungal and antibacterial
- Leaves are antiseptic, astringent and anti-inflammatory.
- Treats common cold, abdominal pain, and skin related issues.
- The decoction of its bark is useful in treating diarrhea, ringworms, and ulcers.
What are the Therapeutic Uses of Psidium guajava?
Constipation
Guava has a high content of dietary fiber and its seeds are excellent laxative. These properties of guava maintain the healthy bowel movements and cleanse the excretory system and intestines that prevent the body from damage.
Eyesight
Guava is the richest source of vitamin A which is good for eyesight and act as the booster for vision health. It not only prevents the degradation of eyesight but also improves it. It slows down the progress of cataract and is also good for the skin.
Weight Loss
Guava is helpful in losing weight and is rich in minerals, vitamins, and proteins. It has zero cholesterol and can easily satisfy the appetite. It also regulates the body’s metabolism and has less sugar content than other fruits.
Prevention of Cancer
Guava has the capability to prevent the growth of cancerous cells. Antioxidants present in it reduce the risk of prostate cancer and breast cancer. It works specifically on the cancers of prostate, oral , and breast.
Diabetes Mellitus
Raw guava has less sugar content as compared to other fruits like grapes, apples, and oranges. It maintains the healthy blood sugar level and has high fiber that controls the sugar absorption in the body.
Boosts Immunity
Guava contains vitamin C 4 times more than the citrus fruits. Vitamin C improves immunity and protects the body against common infections.
Stress Buster
Magnesium present in it has various medicinal properties. It relaxes the nerves and muscles of the body. It also combats the stress and provides energy to the body.
Treats Toothache
Guava has an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action which has the ability to fight against germs. The paste of guava leaves or consuming guava leaves work as a wonderful home remedy for toothache, oral ulcers, swollen gums, etc.
Heart Health
Guava balances the sodium and potassium level in the body thereby regulates the blood pressure in patients who suffer from hypertension. It improves the level of good cholesterol by reducing the levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides.
