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Guava, popularly known as amrood in Hindi, comes loaded with benefits. It is believed to have its roots in Central America where it is alternatively known as “sand plum”. Besides its unique flavour and fragrance, guava has been hailed as one of the super fruits due to the numerous health benefits that it offers. It indeed is a powerhouse of nutrients. This fruit is extraordinarily rich in vitamin C, lycopene and antioxidants that are beneficial for the skin. Guavas are also rich in manganese which helps the body to absorb other key nutrients from the food that is consumed. Guavas contain folate, a mineral which helps to promote fertility. The potassium in guavas helps to normalise blood pressure levels. In fact, a banana and a guava contain almost the same amount of potassium. Since it contains about 80% of water it helps keep your skin hydrated”, says Dr. Manoj K. Ahuja, Sukhda Hospital. Here are 15 mind-blowing guava benefits for health and skin that you need to know.

Guava for Health

1. Immunity Booster

Guavas are one of the richest sources of Vitamin C. Guavas contain four times the Vitamin C content present in oranges. Vitamin C helps improve immunity and protects against common infections and pathogens.

2. Lowers Risk of Cancer

“Lycopene, quercetin, Vitamin C and other polyphenols act as potent antioxidants which neutralise free radicals generated in the body, preventing the growth of cancer cells. Guavas have shown to be widely successful in reducing prostate cancer risk and also inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells since it is rich in lycopene”, says Dr. Manoj K. Ahuja.

3. Diabetes-Friendly

Due to the rich fibre content and low glycaemic index guavas prevent the development of diabetes. While the low glycaemic index inhibits a sudden spike in sugar levels, the fibre content ensures the sugar levels are well regulated.

4. Heart Healthy

Guavas improve the sodium and potassium balance of the body, thereby regulating blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Guavas also help to lower the levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol (LDL) which contribute to the development of heart disease. This magical fruit improves levels of the good cholesterol (HDL).

5. Treats Constipation

It is one of the richest sources of dietary fibre in comparison to other fruits and one guava fulfils about 12% of your daily recommended intake of fibre, which makes it extremely beneficial for your digestive health. Guava seeds, if ingested whole or chewed, serve as excellent laxatives.

6. Improves Eyesight

Due to the presence of Vitamin A, guava is well known as a booster for vision. It can not only prevent degradation of eyesight, but even improve eyesight. It can help to slow down the appearance of cataracts and macular degeneration. Even though guavas are not as rich in Vitamin A as carrots, they are still a very good source of the nutrient.

7. Guava during Pregnancy

Guavas contain folic acid, or Vitamin B-9, which is recommended for pregnant women since it can help in developing the baby’s nervous system and protect the new-born from neurological disorders.

8. Beats Toothache

Guava leaves have a potent anti-inflammatory quality and a powerful antibacterial ability which fights infection and kills germs. Thus, consuming guava leaves works as a fantastic home remedy for toothache. The juice of guava leaves has also been known to cure toothaches, swollen gums and oral ulcers.

9. Stress-Buster

The magnesium present in guavas helps to relax the muscles and nerves of the body. So after a hard workout or a long day at the office a guava is certainly what you need to relax your muscles, combat stress and give your system a good energy boost.

10. Good for Your Brain

“Guavas contain Vitamin B3 and Vitamin B6, also known as niacin and pyridoxine respectively, which help in improving blood circulation to the brain, stimulating cognitive function and relaxing the nerves,” remarks Dr. Manoj K. Ahuja.

11. Weight Loss

Want to shed a few pounds? Guava is just the fruit for you. Without compromising your intake of proteins, vitamins and fibre, guava helps you lose weight by regulating your metabolism. It’s a win-win! Guava makes for a very filling snack and satisfies the appetite. Guava, especially raw guava, also has far less sugar as compared to apples, oranges, grapes, and other fruits.

12. Cough and Cold

Guava has one of the highest quantities of Vitamin-C and iron among fruits and both are proven to be preventive against cold and viral infections. The juice of raw and immature guavas or a decoction of guava-leaves is very helpful in relieving cough and cold since it helps to get rid of mucus and disinfects the respiratory tract, throat and lungs.

Guava for Skin

13. Anti-Ageing Properties

Guavas are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C and antioxidants like carotene and lycopene which help to protect the skin from wrinkles. A guava a day, keeps fine lines away!

14. Improves Complexion

Guava helps regain the skin’s radiance and freshness. Guavas are also a great source of Vitamin K, which helps get rid of skin discoloration, dark circles, redness and acne irritation.

15. Improves Texture

Guavas rank high in astringent properties, guava leaves and unripe guavas even higher. Guava helps to tone up and tighten the facial muscles.

— — The author is part of the management of the Vindhyachal Agro Farms Pvt. Ltd.