Guava: Pink vs White Fruit Benefits. Leaves, Juice Medicinal Uses

Guava is a small, thin-skinned tropical fruit. They are often processed into jellies, jams and preserves, but they can also be consumed fresh. The fruits are round to pear-shaped, usually less than 3 inches in diameter, with green or bright-yellow skins; some have a reddish blush. Ripe guavas have a musky, pungent odor. They contain small, hard seeds that may irritate the throat, but some of the newer varieties are relatively free from seeds. Guavas are sensitive to frost, which explains why the majority of them grown in this country are found only in California and Florida.

History and Origin

Guava is a tropical fruit native to Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. India and China are the two countries that produce the most guava. India is the world’s largest producer of guava, accounting for nearly 70% of global production. China is the second-largest producer of it, accounting for nearly 20% of global production. Other major producers include Thailand, Mexico, and Pakistan. It’s become increasingly popular in the United States due to its health benefits. Not only is guava a delicious snack, but it can also be a great addition to any diet. Here are some of the health benefits of guava that make it a great choice for anyone looking to stay healthy.

Cultural Spiritual Beliefs

In many cultures, the fruti is seen as a symbol of wealth and abundance. In India, it is believed that Lord Shiva once presented this tree to his wife Parvati, thus symbolizing the power and importance of marriage. It is also believed in some parts of India, that the tree has the power to ward off evil spirits. In parts of Mexico, the guava is seen as a symbol of fertility, and is often given to pregnant women. In some Caribbean cultures, the guava is seen as a symbol of protection, and is often given to newborn babies. It is a fruit that is rich in cultural and spiritual symbolism across many different cultures. In Hinduism, it is seen as a symbol of fertility and abundance. In some cultures, the guava tree is believed to protect homes from negative energy and bad luck. The fruit is thought to be a sign of good luck and a symbol of prosperity. Additionally, in some cultures, it is believed that it has healing powers and can help heal emotional wounds.

Guava Nutrition Facts and Calories Chart

The main acid found in guava is citric acid. Fruit contains approximately 0.08–0.18 g/100 g of oxalic acid. The presence of oxalate ions in the fruit increases as the fruit ripens. As the guava fruit ripens and its sugar content increases, the amount of oxalate present also increases. Additionally, the activity of the enzyme that breaks down oxalates, oxalate oxidase, decreases with ripening, resulting in even more oxalate in the fruit. Which vitamins do we get from guava? Here is the list – Nutritional value per 100 g fruit:

Biotin: 0.002 mg
Calcium: 28 mg
Carbohydrates (Carbs): 10.4 g
Chloride: 8 mg
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Choline: 0.3 mg
Chromium: 0.1 mcg
Copper: 0.07 mg
Dietary Fiber: 2.4 g
Energy (Calories): 68 kcal
Fat: 0.7 g
Iodine: 3.2 mcg
Iron: 0.4 mg
Magnesium: 18 mg
Manganese: 0.2 mg
Molybdenum: 0.3 mcg
Pantothenic Acid: 0.3 mg
Phosphorus: 19 mg
Potassium: 228 mg
Protein: 1.4 g
Saturated fat: 0.1 g
Selenium: 0.2 mcg
Sodium: 2 mg
Sugars: 5.9 g
Vitamin A: 97 IU
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): 0.04 mg
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 0.06 mg
Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 0.4 mg
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): 0.3 mg
Vitamin B6: 0.1 mg
Vitamin B9 (Folate / Folic Acid): 44 mcg
Vitamin B12: 0 mcg
Vitamin C: 228.3 mg
Vitamin D: 0 IU
Vitamin E: 0.2 mg
Vitamin K: 1.1 mcg
Water: 79.2 g
Zinc: 0.1 mg

Pink vs White Guava

What is the difference between white and pink guava? White guavas have a sweeter and milder taste compared to pink guavas, which have a tangy and acidic flavor. Pink guavas are softer and more pulpy, while White guavas have a firmer texture. White guavas have a light yellow or white flesh, while pink guavas have a pink or red flesh. When it comes to size, white variety is larger than pink variety. White variety has a higher calorie content than pink, with about 69 calories per 100 grams compared to pink guava’s 60 calories. Also white variety has more dietary fiber, with about 3.2 grams per 100 grams compared to pink variety’s 2.6 grams. White also has a higher vitamin C content than pink guava, with about four times more vitamin C. White variety also has more of the minerals potassium and magnesium, and has a higher protein content than pink. Pink guava, however, has more folate, iron, and calcium than white. Both pink and white guava are equally good and healthy, but the white variety is said to be slightly sweeter than the pink one. Ultimately, what is good for you comes down to your individual tastes and preferences.

Guava vs Orange

Saying that guava is high in vitamin C is an understatement when compared to the orange. Oranges get a lot of attention for vitamin C content; however, guavas have this citrus fruit beat. One cup of guava contains about 375 milligrams of vitamin C compared to just 83 milligrams in the same amount of orange segments. Guava is best source of pectin. Pectin is form of fiber is highly beneficial in reducing serum cholesterol levels. It is rich in tannic, malic, oxalic and phospheric acids as well as calcium, oxalate and manganese.

Tomato vs Guava vs Amla vs Lemon

Guavas are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, folate, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. They also contain high levels of antioxidants, including lycopene and polyphenols which can help fight cancer, lower cholesterol, and reduce inflammation. The main difference amongst all is the contain of vitamin C. Amla, tomato, guava, or lemon which contains more vitamin C? Which is the richest in vitamin C?

Tomato: Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, with one medium-sized tomato containing about 17 milligrams (mg) of the nutrient.
Guava: Guavas are an excellent source of vitamin C, providing 88 mg per cup (165 grams) – that’s more than three times the amount in an orange.
Amla: Amla is an Indian fruit that is an excellent source of vitamin C. It contains about 700 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams – about 12 times the amount in an orange.
Lemon: Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, containing about 53 mg per fruit.

Guava vs Apple

Apples and guavas are both tasty and nutritious fruits that have some similarities and differences. Both apples and guavas are high in dietary fiber, and they both contain potassium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C. They are both considered to be low-calorie fruits. Apples are sweet and crunchy, while guavas are more tart and juicy. Apples have more sugar and carbohydrates than guavas. Additionally, apples contain a greater range of vitamins and minerals than guavas, including Vitamin E, folate, and iron. Guavas, on the other hand, contain more antioxidants than apples.

Guava Fruit and India

In India, guava is said to be the favorite fruit of Lord Krishna because it is believed that Lord Krishna used to love eating the sweet, juicy and fragrant guava fruit. Guavas were available in abundance in the forests of Vrindavan, where Lord Krishna spent much of his childhood. He is said to have enjoyed the taste and fragrance of the guavas and would often be seen with a basket of freshly picked guavas. In India, guava is typically eaten raw, either as a whole fruit or cut into slices. Raw guava is traditionally eaten with a sprinkle of masala salt, which is a mixture of spices such as black pepper, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. The masala salt adds a unique flavor to the guava, and it is a staple accompaniment in many Indian households. It can also be cooked with spices such as cumin, chili powder, and salt to make a spicy chutney. The fruit can also be cooked with jaggery and other ingredients to make a sweet dish, or made into a pickle. It is also sometimes blended into smoothies or blended with other fruits to make a refreshing drink.

Scientific Binomial: Psidium guajava
Common English: Guava / Yellow Guava / Lemon Guava / Pink Guava
Ayurvedic: Peruka
Unani:
Sanskrit: Amaruuda
Hindi / Urdu: Amrood / Amrud
Bengali: Peyara
Marathi: Peru
Telugu: Jama
Tamil: Koyya / Segappu koyyaa / Koiya pazham
Gujarati: Jamaphala / Jamfal
Kannada: Perala / Seebe Hannu / Chepekaayi
Malayalam: Pera / Perakka
Oriya: Amrud
Punjabi / Sindhi: Amarud
Assamese: Modhuriam / Madhuri Aam / Madhuriyam
Kashmiri:
Konkani: Peron / Peroo
Manipuri: Pungdon
Dogri:
Bhojpuri:

Guava Health Benefits

Guava is a tropical fruit native to Central America and Mexico. It was first cultivated by the Mayans and Aztecs, who believed it had medicinal properties. The Spanish brought guava to the Philippines, where it is now widely grown. It was then introduced to the Caribbean islands and eventually spread to other tropical areas such as India, Africa, and the Middle East. Today, it is a popular fruit in many countries around the world. It can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and juices. Guava is also a key ingredient in many traditional dishes. If you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious snack, this fruit is a great choice. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a range of health benefits that make it a great addition to any healthy diet.

Digestive Health and Constipation: Guavas are a good source of dietary fiber which helps to keep the digestive system running smoothly and prevents constipation. Eating guavas can help increase the amount of water in the intestines and bulk up the stool, making it easier to pass. The high levels of dietary fiber also help to keep the digestive system active and regular. Additionally, guavas are a good source of vitamin C, which helps to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and promote regularity. Guava when eaten with seeds, gives roughage to the diet and helps in the normal evacuation of the bowels.
Skin Health: The Vitamin C in guavas is essential for healthy skin, as it helps the body produce collagen and elastin, which are important for maintaining a youthful, glowing complexion.
Heart Health: The high levels of potassium in guavas help to reduce blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. The Negritos of the Philippines have used ripe guava as a tonic for strengthening weak hearts. Ripe guavas are consumed to overcome congestion of the lungs and throat.
Oral Health: The unripe guava is useful in halitosis. Chewing unripe guava is an excellent tonic for teeth and gums. It stops the bleeding from gums due its styptic effect and richness in vitamin C. Chewing its tender leaves also helps in curing bleeding from gums and keeps the teeth healthy. A decoction of root-bark can also be beneficial used as mouth- wash for swollen gums. Munching a guava after lunch removes most of the trapped particles.
Guava is helpful in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, convulsion, and epilepsy.
Diarrhea: To treat diarrhea, drink one full glass of guava juice daily. Guava is rich in vitamin C, and if you have access to the fresh fruit, it makes a wonderful juice. The juice is thick, so add ice and water, and then sweeten to taste with a small amount of raw sugar or honey, or add an orange to the mix.
Cholera: The root bark of guava is valuable remedy for cholera. It is rich in tannis and can be successfully employed in the form of concentrated decoction in cholera. It will arrest vomiting and symptoms of diarrhea.
Powdered guava leaves can be put on ringworm with good results.

Guava Leaves Health Benefits

Leaves are a rich source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from cell damage caused by free radicals. Guava leaf tea has been shown to have antibacterial properties, which can help fight infections. Leaf tea may help lower blood sugar levels, making it a potential natural remedy for those with diabetes. It also help lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and also helps to improve digestion, as it has been shown to have laxative properties.

1. Aids Weight Loss

Guava leaves are rich in dietary fibre, which helps to keep you feeling full for longer and prevents you from overeating. It also helps to speed up the metabolic process, aiding weight loss. Here are few tips – How to use leaves for weight loss or to flat tummy? How long do I take these leaves to lose weight? For how long should I take guava leaf tea to lose weight?

Make a tea: Boil a few guava leaves in water. Add honey or lemon juice to taste. Drink this tea twice daily. Leaf tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with joint pain and other inflammatory conditions.
Add guava leaves to your diet: Chop up a few leaves and add them to your salads or smoothies.
Make a guava leaf powder: Dry out leaves and grind them into a powder. Add this powder to soups, stews, and other dishes.
Take guava leaf supplements: You can purchase leaf supplements in many health food stores. Follow the instructions on the package to determine how much to take.
Eat guava fruit: Eating the fruit is a great way to get the benefits of guava leaves without having to consume the leaves directly. Guava is considered to be keto friendly as it is low in carbohydrates and high in fiber.

2. Improves Hair Health

Guava leaves are rich in vitamin B and potassium which helps to promote hair growth and reduce hair fall. They also contain high amounts of iron which helps to prevent premature greying of hair. Guava leaves are a natural remedy for hair fall. They are rich in vitamins and minerals that can help strengthen hair follicles and promote scalp health. They contain Vitamin B, C, and E, which help to nourish the hair and reduce hair fall. Guava leaves also contain polyphenols which are powerful antioxidants that protect the scalp from free radicals. These antioxidants help to reduce inflammation and can help to reduce the amount of hair fall. Leaves also contain essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium which help to strengthen the hair follicles and reduce hair fall. But how to use guava leaves for hair regrowth?

Make a paste of leaves by grinding them in a blender or food processor with a little water.
Apply the paste directly to your scalp, massaging it gently with your fingertips.
Leave the paste on your scalp for 15 to 20 minutes.
Rinse your hair with warm water and shampoo.
Repeat this process twice a week to promote hair regrowth.

3. Regulates blood sugar levels

Guava leaves contain compounds that help to regulate blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for people with diabetes. Guava leaves are thought to help diabetics by regulating the absorption of glucose in the intestines, thus reducing the metabolism of glucose and preventing dramatic spikes in blood sugar levels. It also increases insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to better use its own insulin and reduce the reliance on supplemental forms. It helps by decreasing the production of advanced glycation end products, which are molecules that can cause damage to organs, nerve cells, and blood vessels. Also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by chronic high blood sugar levels. Leaves can help reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. They can be used in a variety of ways, including:

Brewing the leaves to make guava leaf tea: Boil a handful of guava leaves in two cups of water for 10 minutes. Strain the tea and drink it three times a day.
Adding guava leaves to salads or other dishes.
Making a guava leaf paste and applying it directly to the skin.
Taking guava leaf supplements, which are available in pill form.

4. Fertility

The use of guava leaves for fertility has not been scientifically proven. However, some research has shown that guava leaves may help to improve sperm quality and motility in men. In women, thse leaves may help to regulate hormones and reduce menstrual pain. Guava leaves also contain antioxidants which may help reduce oxidative stress in the body, which can impact fertility. Some traditional cultures believe that consuming leaves can help improve fertility in men due to its high vitamin C content. Vitamin C is known to help increase sperm motility and sperm count. Studies have also found that consuming guava leaves can help reduce oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, which can play a role in male infertility. While leaves may have potential benefits for improving fertility in men, more research is needed to understand the effects. The exact length of time for taking leaves for fertility will vary depending on the individual. It is important to speak with a health care provider before starting any herbal supplement to ensure safety and effectiveness. Here’s how guava leaves can be used for fertility:

Make a tea. Steep a few dried guava leaves in hot water for around 10 minutes. Strain and drink the tea every day.
Consume leaf extract. Take 500mg of guava leaf extract twice daily.
Add guava leaves to your diet. You can add fresh leaves to salads, soups, and stews. You can also dry the leaves and use them as a seasoning for dishes.
Apply leaf paste. Make a paste using guava leaves, honey, and water. Apply this paste on your abdomen and leave it for about 20 minutes. Wash off with warm water.
Make a leaf tincture. Steep guava leaves in apple cider vinegar for around two weeks. Strain and take 1 tablespoon of the tincture three times daily.

5. Cure Wounds

Guava leaves have long been used as a medicinal remedy for wounds, cuts, and bruises. The natural antiseptic and astringent properties of the leaves help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Leaves are known to contain compounds that can stop the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can help prevent infection. To use leaves for wound healing, grind a few fresh leaves into a paste and apply directly to the wound. OR Crush a few guava leaves and apply the paste directly to the wound. Allow the paste to sit on the wound for 10 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. The antibacterial and antiseptic properties of the leaves will help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. You can also steep the leaves in boiling water for 15 minutes, strain the liquid, and use it as a wash for the wound.

Popular Healthy Recipes

What do you do with a guava? What can be made from ripe fruit or the best way to eat it?

Coconut Custard Pie: It is a traditional Caribbean dessert, featuring a creamy custard filling combined with the sweet and tart flavors of guava and coconut. The filling is typically set in a flaky pastry crust and topped with a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
Margarita: A Guava Margarita is a sweet and fruity twist on the classic Margarita cocktail. It is made with tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and guava juice. It is usually garnished with a lime wedge.
Grilled Chicken with Guava Glaze: A dish that consists of chicken marinated in a guava glaze and grilled to perfection. The guava glaze features a flavorful combination of guava, garlic, ginger, lime juice, olive oil, and brown sugar. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the chicken that is both savory and delicious.
Guava Glazed Salmon: Guava-glazed salmon is a sweet and savory seafood dish made with fresh salmon fillets that are marinated in a guava-based glaze and then grilled or baked. The glaze typically includes guava and honey, as well as other ingredients such as garlic, lime juice, and chili powder. The sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors of the glaze pair perfectly with the rich, fatty fish, and the result is a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal that’s sure to please.
French Toast: A sweet and delicious breakfast dish made with French toast filled with guava jam or preserves. The toast is then typically dipped in egg and fried until golden brown. This dish is often served with powdered sugar, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a side of syrup or honey.
Cheese Empanadas: Guava Cheese Empanadas are a traditional dish from Latin America. They are baked or fried pastries filled with a sweet and creamy guava cheese filling. The flavor of the guava and cheese together creates a unique and delicious combination. They are popular as an appetizer, snack, or dessert and can be served hot or cold.
Rice Pudding: Guava Rice Pudding is a creamy, flavorful pudding made with cooked rice, evaporated milk, sugar, spices, and guava puree. It is a traditional Latin American dessert often served with a sprinkle of cinnamon, toasted coconut flakes, and a drizzle of honey.

Tree Plantation and Cultivation

Guava is a tropical plant that prefers warm climates. It grows best in areas with average temperatures between 65 and 75°F (18-24°C). Guava grows well in a variety of soil types, but prefers loamy, well-drained soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. Sandy loam soils with organic matter are the best for guava production. The soil should also be kept moist but not soggy.

From a cutting: You can grow guava from a cutting. Cuttings should be taken from healthy guava trees, and should be at least 2-3 inches long with a couple of leaves. Place the cutting in a pot filled with soil, and water it regularly. Keep the pot in a warm, sunny area. With proper care, the cutting should begin to root in a few weeks.
From a fruit: guava can be grown from a fruit. To do so, cut the fruit in half and remove the seed(s). Place the seed(s) in moist potting soil and cover with a thin layer of soil. Place the pot in a warm, sunny area and keep the soil evenly moist. When the seedlings emerge, thin out the weaker ones and transplant the strongest seedlings into individual pots.
From a seed: You can grow a guava tree from a seed. To do this, you will need to remove the seed from the guava fruit and then soak it in water for two days to soften the seed’s outer coating. Next, you will need to plant the seed in a pot filled with a soil and compost mixture and keep the soil moist. Place the pot in a sunny location, and the seed should germinate in a few days. As the plant grows, you can transplant it into a larger pot, or into your garden.

How to Grow Guava Tree?

You can grow the plant in a container. You’ll need a large container with drainage holes, a well-draining potting mix, and a tree sapling. Plant the tree in the potting mix, making sure the root ball is completely covered. Water the tree deeply and regularly, and make sure the soil stays moist but not soggy. Prune the tree regularly and feed it with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks. Place the container in an area with full sun or partial shade.

Select a sunny spot in your garden that has good drainage.
Dig a large hole in the soil about twice the size of the root ball of the tree.
Place the guava tree in the hole and spread its roots.
Fill the hole with soil and press down firmly.
Water the tree thoroughly and mulch the soil around the tree to retain moisture.
Prune the tree to encourage new growth and to maintain its shape.
Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Water the tree regularly during the dry season.
Adjust the amount of water depending on the weather conditions.
Watch out for pests and diseases, and take appropriate measures to control them.

Side Effects, Precautions and Warnings

Eating guava seeds can cause digestive distress, as they are hard and can be difficult to digest. Eating too many seeds can also cause constipation and stomach upset. Additionally, seeds contain high levels of oxalates, which can increase the risk of kidney stones in some people. So can I eat guava when I have kidney stones? the answer is eating guava does not create any problems for kidney stones. In fact, consuming the fruit may be beneficial for those with kidney stones, as it is rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of kidney stones.

FAQs.

Q. Should we drink water after eating guava?
Yes, it’s recommended to drink water after eating guava to help with digestion.

Q. Can guavas help me with constipation?
Yes, guavas have a high amount of dietary fiber and can help relieve constipation. The dietary fiber helps to add bulk to stools, making them easier to pass. In addition, guavas contain compounds called sorbitol and mannitol, which can act as natural laxatives.

Q. Do guava or tomato seeds cause any stones (e.g. kidney stones or gallstones)?
No, guava and tomato seeds do not cause any stones.

Q. How many guava eat per day?
There is no specific recommended amount of fruit to eat per day, as it depends on individual dietary needs and preferences. Eating too much can lead to digestive issues and other health problems. It is generally recommended to eat no more than one or two pieces of guava per day.

Q. Does guava increase immunity?
Guava is a nutritious fruit that is thought to have many health benefits, including boosting immunity. It is high in vitamin C, which is known to help support the immune system, and it contains many antioxidants that may help protect the body from disease. Additionally, some research has suggested that plant leaves may have antimicrobial properties, which may help protect against infections.

Q. What is the best time to eat?
It is best to eat guava in the morning or mid-afternoon. Eating guava in the morning is a great way to start the day with an energizing snack. Eating it mid-afternoon is a great way to get a burst of energy and nutrition to help you through the rest of the day. Guava is a healthy snack that can be eaten any time of the day. Ripe guavas can be eaten raw, either as a snack or part of a meal. They can also be used in a variety of recipes, such as juice, jams, chutneys, and desserts. Fruit seeds can also be eaten. They are often dried and ground into flour, which can then be used to make bread, cakes, and other treats.