Guavas are tropical trees originating in Central America.
Their fruits are oval in shape with light green or yellow skin and contain edible seeds. What’s more, guava leaves are used as an herbal tea and the leaf extract as a supplement.
Guava fruits are amazingly rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. This remarkable nutrient content gives them many health benefits.
Here are 8 evidence-based health benefits of guava fruits and leaves.
1. May Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Some evidence suggests that guava can improve blood sugar control.
Several test-tube and animal studies found that guava leaf extract improved blood sugar levels, long-term blood sugar control, and insulin resistance.
This is good news for people with diabetes or those at risk.
A few studies involving humans have also shown impressive results.
One study in 19 people noted that drinking guava leaf tea lowered blood sugar levels after a meal. The effects lasted up to two hours.
Another study in 20 people with type 2 diabetes found that drinking guava leaf tea reduced blood sugar levels after a meal by more than 10%.
