Guava is an another tropical fruit which is readily available in winter season. It is a powerhouse of nutrients. It is also called as "Super food". Guava fruit has exotic flavor, taste and health promoting characteristics.
* Guava is a good source of pectin. High pectin content in guava would reduce the amount of stabilizing and gelling agent, which is usually added to reduce synersis. It is a rich source of relatively low methoxylated pectin (50%) amounting to more than 10% of the dry weight.
* It is a rich source of vitamin C and good source of calcium and phosphorus.
* Guava
is rich in tannins, phenols, triterpenes, flavonoids, essential oils, saponins,
carotenoids, lectins, vitamins and fatty acids.
* They are useful
sources of nicotinic acid, phosphorous, soluble fiber and dietary fiber which make tham a bulk laxative.
* They are high in lutein, zeaxanthine and lycopene and particularly in quercetin. Quercetin is thought to contribute to the anti-diarrhea effect of guava; it is able to relax intestinal smooth muscle and inhibit bowel contractions. Zeaxanthine helps in prevention of age associated eye disorders.
* They also used in the treatment of dirrhoea, dysentry, constipation, cough, cold, high blood pressure, weight loss, diabetes, scurvy and in skin care.