Poorva Chavan
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Written By: Poorva Chavan | Updated : May 10, 2016 10:53 AM IST
Guava is one of the most easily available fruits in India and is also widely consumed. While it is known to improve immunity and has various health benefits, not everyone knows about the pharmacological properties of guava leaves. Guava leaf has been used in ancient medicine to treat fever and reduce inflammation, but it is also effective in managing diabetes and controlling blood cholesterol level.
A study published in the journal Nutrition and Metabolism [1], says that guava leaf extract can reduce postprandial or post-meal blood glucose levels. The study shows that guava leaf extract can inhibit the action of alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme which breaks down starch and other carbohydrates to glucose. The study also compared guava leaf extract to voglibose, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor which is commonly used to treat diabetes. However, it was found that guava leaf extract had a milder effect than voglibose.
The study also says that drinking guava leaf extract with every meal improves other symptoms of diabetes like hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance and hyperlipidemia. Apart from controlling blood glucose level, guava leaf extract is effective in lowering blood cholesterol level too. It is believed to be effective in helping people with hypercholesterolemia. Guava leaves also have an anti-hyperlipidemic and reduces serum phospholipids, serum triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels.
Zero side effects
Guava leaf extract is safe with almost zero side effects. The study says that drinking guava leaf extract along with anti-diabetic medicines is safe and has no side effects. It confirms that guava leaves do not induce toxicity, mutagenicity and neither does it interact abnormally with anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemia drugs.
How to make guava leaf extract
Remember that this is a natural remedy and might not be effective for everyone. Also, it is best to consult a doctor before using this medication.
Reference
Deguchi Y, Miyazaki K. Anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects of guava leaf extract. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2010 Feb 2;7:9. doi: 10.1186/1743-7075-7-9. PubMed PMID: 20181067; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC2831039. Image source: Shutterstock 