Studies have shown that fresh guava leaves are blessed with antioxidants and antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that greatly benefit the body. In the same vein, laboratory analysis shows that the leaves contain various nutrients including tannins, carotenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenols, among others, active in treating multiple health challenges.
Below are some of the benefits of guava leaves;
Aid Digestion
Guava leaves are a rich source of dietary fiber and are helpful in treating various digestive ailments. The leaves also prevent constipation and contain pectin and mucilage compounds that facilitate digestion by increasing bowel movement.
The antibacterial properties of the leaves aid in killing bacteria in the gut and stop the proliferation of toxic enzymes. Similarly, they are taken to relieve nausea and vomiting as well as food poisoning.
Relieve Menstrual Pain
Research has shown guava leaves can significantly reduce menstrual pain and cramps because of the presence of a natural analgesic that acts on prostaglandin, an enzyme responsible for menstrual cramps in women. The leaves also balance hormones during menstruation.
Improve skin texture
Guava leaves have antioxidants that work to destroy free radicals that damage the skin and prevent aging. When consumed, aestheticians say, guava leaves improve the skin texture and appearance. The leaves are also mashed and applied to remove black spots.
Effective for healthy hair
Guava leaves help to strengthen the hair and prevent hair fall. The anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties also solve scalp-related problems and dandruff. Rich in vitamin B and C, applying guava leaves paste nourishes and aids hair growth.
Manage blood sugar levels
Guava leaves are a rich source of antioxidants and fiber which stabilize blood sugar levels naturally, health experts have said.
Stop diarrhea
The leaves of guava are used in herbal medicine to treat dysentery and diarrhea.
Reduce cholesterol level
Drinking guava leaf tea is one of the natural ways of lowering cholesterol levels. Adding guava leaves to diets may ensure optimal results.
Weight Management
Guava leaves prevent complex starches from converting into sugar and thus help to manage excessive weight gain.
Other benefits are: fighting cancer, good for healthy vision, healing acne
Meanwhile, guava leaves can either be boiled in hot water, consumed raw after proper rinsing or made into a tea for different health purposes.
Source: AgroNigeria
