Guavas (Myrtaceae) are round fruits with a thin bumpy outer skin and creamy inner pulp that is packed with seeds.
Health Benefits of Guavas:
- Increased Protection from Bacterial and Viral Infections
- Increased Immune Function
- Reduced Cancer Risk
- Protection Against Heart Disease
- Slowing Aging
- DNA Repair and Protection
- Alleviation of Cardiovascular Disease
- Alleviation of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Alzheimer's Protection
- Osteoporosis Protection
- Stroke Prevention
- Reduced Risk of Type II Diabetes
- Reduced Frequency of Migraine Headaches
- Alleviation of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Antioxidant Protection
- Prevention of Epileptic Seizures
- Prevention of Alopecia (Spot Baldness)
How to choose Guavas: The most important thing to consider when choosing a guava is the smell. Find a guava that smells sweet and it will taste good. Some discolorations on the skin are OK, just avoid any fruits with obvious damage or rotting. A guava will yield when mild pressure is applied and this is a sign that the guava is ripe and ready to eat.
Climate and origin: Guavas originated in tropical portions of Central and South America, and are now widely cultivated in tropical climates all over the world. (zones 8-10 in the U.S.) Guava is a hearty plant and can be grown under green houses in colder climates.
Taste: Guava has a fragrant sweet taste and a mushy texture.
Miscellaneous information: The amount of vitamin C in guavas varies by type. Notably, a Strawberry Guava contains less than a quarter of the vitamin C found in a Common Guava.
