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Guava
If you go hunting for guava you might be amazed to find that there are approximately 100 varieties of these tropical shrubs and small trees. It is a common fruit throughout most tropical regions. Vitamins, Minerals and Phytochemical Components Guava are often ignored, but they are one of Mother Nature's most potent healing agents. They are inexpensive, and their benefits are valuable. Nutritionally they have more fiber than prunes. They are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which is known to help prevent gastrointestinal cancers as well as lower cholesterol levels. Several vitamins and minerals including lycopene, beta-carotene, calcium, potassium, iron, folate, vitamins A, B and C, are present in the fruit. If the Fountain of Youth is what you seek; guava’s vitamin B retards the oxidation of cells. The powerful antioxidants of its carotenoids (vitamin A) provide skin-smoothing, moisturizing properties and protection against environmental toxins. As a source of vitamin C, it stimulates production of collagen and is involved in the building and health of cartilage, joints, skin, and blood vessels. This also aids in neutralizing pollutants and has natural antihistamine properties, which protect skin from various skin conditions like hives, eczema, and psoriasis. The level of vitamin C in the edible rind of the fruit is five times higher than that of an orange. Lycopene is a proven antioxidant which neutralizes the free radicals which damage the body's cells. Medicinal Uses based on Scientific Studies To repair skin damaged by the sun; a poultice of guava might do the trick. Certain bacteria may be combated through a diet including the fruit as well. Leaves are used to remedy diarrhea (1), and for the benefits of antimicrobial properties. We have to remember all good things in moderation though. There are indications that the same properties controlling diarrhea (2) also cause constipation if you were to eat too much of the fruit. Recent findings indicate that this fruit could help diabetics with its sugar-lowering (2),(3). It's fruit extract may have constricting properties on skin, which makes it a potential skin irritant when used regularly. References 1. Abreu, P. R., Almeida, M. C., Bernardo, R. M., Bernardo, L. C., Brito, L. C., Garcia E. A., et al. (2006). Extract (Psidium guajava) alters the labelling of blood constituents with technetium-99m. Journal of Zhejiang University Science B, 7(6), 429-435. 2. Hsieh, C-L, Lin, Y-C, Yen, G-C, & Chen, H-Y. (2007). Preventive effects of guava (Psidium guajava L.) leaves and its active compounds against α-dicarbonyl compounds-induced blood coagulation. Food Chemistry, 103(2), 528-535.Food Chemistry, 103(2), 528-535. 3. Mukhtar, H. M., Ansari, S. H., Bhat, Z. A., Naved, T., & Singh, P. (2006). Antidiabetic activity of an ethanol extract obtained from the stem bark of Psidium guajava (Myrtaceae). Die Pharmazie, 61(8), 725-727.
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