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Organic Guava

Also known as: Psidium guajava L., Guava, Apple Guava, Psidium guajava

Overview

Guava (*Psidium guajava*) is a tropical tree native to Central and South America, with its leaves, bark, and fruit traditionally used in medicine. It is rich in tannins, flavonoids, triterpenes, and quercetin. Primary uses include treating diarrhea, type 2 diabetes, dysmenorrhea, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension, as well as leveraging its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiplaque properties. Research on guava is limited, with few clinical trials and mostly small-scale studies. The available evidence is generally of low quality due to small sample sizes and inconsistent findings. Guava extracts may inhibit glucose absorption and reduce blood pressure, interacting with the digestive, cardiovascular, and immune systems. While generally considered safe in moderate amounts, comprehensive safety data, especially for long-term use, is lacking.

Benefits

Guava has shown potential antibacterial and antiplaque activity. A small clinical study indicated that guava fruit consumption prevented the development of experimental gingivitis, though less effectively than chlorhexidine. Some studies suggest guava fruit consumption can reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure, but the evidence is not robust. In vitro and animal studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects, but clinical evidence is lacking. Limited clinical trials indicate guava leaf and fruit extracts may help reduce postprandial glucose levels, although less significantly than standard medications. A study showed guava leaf extract significantly decreased menstrual pain intensity, but a Cochrane review found no consistent evidence of effectiveness. Many studies lack clear effect sizes and confidence intervals, making it difficult to assess clinical significance. Benefits typically require prolonged use, such as 12 weeks for blood pressure reduction and 4 months for dysmenorrhea relief.

How it works

Guava extracts may inhibit sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) and glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2), and inhibit alpha-glucosidase enzymes, potentially aiding in blood glucose management. Anti-inflammatory effects may be mediated through the inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B and the modulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Guava extracts interact with the digestive system by inhibiting glucose absorption, with the cardiovascular system by reducing blood pressure, and with the immune system through anti-inflammatory properties. Limited data exists on the absorption and bioavailability of guava extracts in humans, though animal studies suggest bioactive compounds can be absorbed and exert biological effects.

Side effects

Guava is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts, but the lack of robust clinical trials limits a comprehensive understanding of its safety profile. No severe adverse effects have been reported in available studies, and common, uncommon, and rare side effects are not consistently documented in the literature. There are potential interactions with diabetes medications due to its effects on glucose metabolism, but this is speculative and not well-studied. No clear contraindications have been identified, but caution is advised for individuals with diabetes or those taking medications that could interact with guava’s bioactive compounds. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution due to the lack of safety data.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of guava is not well-established; studies have used dosages such as 1 g/day of guava leaf extract or 0.4 to 1 kg/day of guava fruit. No optimal dosage range is clearly defined due to variability in study protocols. The maximum safe dose is also not established, as available studies do not report adverse effects at the doses used. No specific timing recommendations are available. Extracts, fruit consumption, and leaf tea have been used in different studies. Limited data is available on factors affecting absorption, and no specific cofactors have been identified.

FAQs

Is guava safe to consume?

Guava is generally considered safe, but comprehensive safety data, especially for long-term use or in special populations, is lacking. Consult a healthcare provider before regular consumption.

When and how should I take guava?

No specific timing or administration guidelines are available. Different studies have used extracts, fruit consumption, and leaf tea. Follow the instructions on the product label or as advised by a healthcare professional.

What are the expected results from taking guava?

Potential benefits include reduced blood pressure, improved glucose metabolism, and anti-inflammatory effects, but these are based on limited evidence. Results may vary.

Are there any misconceptions about guava?

Guava is often touted for various health benefits without robust clinical evidence to support these claims. It's important to rely on evidence-based information.

Research Sources

https://www.drugs.com/npp/guava.html – This source provides general information about guava, including its uses, benefits, and potential side effects. It serves as a broad overview but lacks detailed analysis of specific studies.
https://training.cochrane.org/handbook/current/chapter-04 – This Cochrane handbook chapter provides guidance on systematic reviews and meta-analyses, which are essential for evaluating the quality of evidence. It helps in understanding the methodology for assessing the effectiveness of interventions like guava supplementation.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/1/7 – This MDPI article likely contains research on the nutritional aspects or health benefits of guava. It could provide insights into the specific compounds in guava that contribute to its potential therapeutic effects.
https://jmla.pitt.edu/ojs/jmla/article/download/1223/1368 – This article from the Journal of the Medical Library Association may offer information on accessing and evaluating health information resources. It could provide guidance on finding reliable research on guava and other supplements.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/6/1192 – This MDPI article likely presents research on the health benefits of guava, possibly focusing on specific conditions or mechanisms of action. It could offer insights into the potential therapeutic applications of guava.