Guava is a tropical fruit of a shrub that grows mainly in tropical areas of America, Asia and Oceania. Its scientific name is Psidium guajava.
You can find the guava in the gardens of Hanga Roa and in the wild in many parts of the Easter Island - Rapa Nuiwhere, in the language of the Rapa Nui, they are called "tuava" is called.
In our cosmetics line ANAKENA we use an ECOCERT certified certified organic guava extract. However, in this article we want to focus on the multiple health benefits of this plant, not only for skin and hair - when applied with our cosmetics - but also when consumed.
It is a wonderful fruit - rich in vitamins A, B and especially C, as well as many minerals - and both the fruit and the leaves can be used. The guava is a fruit with high nutritional value and health-promoting properties. We tell you 10 health benefits of guava:
1. rich in antioxidants
The guava contains several times more Vitamin C than an orange or any other citrus fruit and therefore has a high content of antioxidants. Antioxidants are essential for health because they prevent the damaging effects of free radicals, which can lead to cell aging and even the development of certain types of cancer.
In addition, vitamin C can help boost the body's immunity - making it more resistant to viruses and bacteria - and facilitates the absorption of iron from the foods we eat every day, which can help prevent or treat anemia.
2. supports collagen production
Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, which, among other things, gives the skin strength, structure and elasticity. In addition, the guava is rich in the antioxidant Lycopene, which helps maintain skin health and prevents premature cell aging.
3. medicinal plant for muscles and joints
Quercetin, a flavonoid that occurs naturally in guava, is essential for our muscles as it helps to relax them after exercise and relieves the symptoms of diseases such as osteoarthritis and arthritis by fighting inflammation and relieving the pain associated with this problem.
Guava is also rich in Folic acid, an important vitamin for the formation of red blood cells and cell regeneration.
4. an ally in the control of hypertension
Among the minerals that the guava provides to our organism are. Potassium, which is very beneficial for the vascular system, as well as the in it contained Polyphenols. These favor the relaxation of blood vessels, contribute to the purification of arteries and facilitate the excretion of sodium, which can counteract hypertension problems.
5. excellent fruit for weight control diets
Since the guava is a very low calorie fruit it can be included without problems in diets for weight loss. Also, being rich in fiber, the fruit promotes digestion and the feeling of satiety, naturally reducing the feeling of hunger.
6. helps with stomach problems
The ingredients contained in the guava Dietary fiber stimulate intestinal movements and improve digestion. When consumed with the peel, it helps fight gastric hyperacidity and is also excellent for the prevention of gastric and duodenal ulcers.
However, thanks to its high tannin content, the guava also possesses astringent, antispasmodic and antimicrobial properties, which help relieve diarrhea (acute or chronic), abdominal pain and the microorganisms that may be responsible.
7. lower cholesterol naturally
The soluble fibers of guava, such as the Pectin, transform in the intestine into a gel that "traps" cholesterol and harmful fats and prevents their absorption, which reduces their amount in the blood and promotes their excretion through the bile.
Some scientific studies suggest that daily consumption of guavas may help lower "bad" (LDL) cholesterol and increase levels of "good" (HDL) cholesterol.
8. antiseptic properties
Especially the guava leaves are rich in antiseptic substances, which act as natural antibiotics, which is why in traditional medicine the infusion of guava leaves is used to heal skin wounds.
9. improves oral health
Chewing guava leaves is a natural remedy for bad breath, as its antiseptic properties eliminate the bacteria that cause the problem. In addition, the infusion helps as a mouthwash due to its analgesic effect for toothache and keeps the inside of the mouth healthy.
10. good for the health of the skin
Eating guavas is very good for the skin, because they are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that helps maintain skin health and prevents premature cell aging.
In summary, it can be said that the guava is a fruit with many health benefits, although it should be remembered that it is a food and does not replace medication. In case of pain or illness, it is always advisable to consult a doctor. Please note that this is not a scientific article.
Finally, we would like to tell you how you can eat guava.
The guava is a fruit with a pleasant taste, so you can just eat it whole, optionally you can remove the seeds. But it is also excellent for making juices, smoothies, compote, ice cream and jam.
From the guava leaves - especially the young ones - infusions can be prepared, which can be drunk, used as a mouthwash or applied externally, for example, for skin blemishes and acne.
