Bayabas: What Are The Health Benefits?

Uses

Bayabas or Guava is a shrub that usually grows in tropical climates like the Philippines. It produces a round green fruit that turns a bit yellow when ripe. Inside are small hard seeds. Most guavas taste sweet with a little bit of bitterness. It is known to be rich in vitamins A and C.

Bayabas’ scientific name is Psidium Guajava. The medicinal value of guava lies in how it can help treat conditions like ulcers, bacterial infections, and wounds.

In fact, it is popularly used and recognized in the Philippines as an herb that has antiseptic properties. This fruits and leaves contain substances like tannin, saponins, phenolic acids, flavonoids and catequinic components.

Traditionally, this fruit is used as antiseptic and anti-inflammatory treatment for the following skin conditions:

•         Wounds
•         Psoriasis
•         Scrapes
•         Scalds and burns
•         Eczema

When crushed or boiled, the fruit and leaves provide relief to the affected area when applied directly. It is believed to enhance the healing process.

This fruit can also be used as a mouthwash to provide relief for gum infection and treat tooth decay.

How does it work?

This exceptional fruit is a great source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, and other helpful substances that work as antioxidants. Bayabas herbal medicine uses and preparation include using the fresh leaves for cleaning wounds and relieving toothaches. 

Here are some of the known uses of Bayabas:

•         Gets rid of fungi, amoeba, and bacteria
•         Anthelmintic, antiseptic, and astringent
•         Treats diarrhea and nosebleeds
•         Treats asthma, diabetes, and hypertension
•         Regulates menstrual cycle
•         Prevents skin blemishes like blackheads and pimples

Its fresh leaves are boiled in water and used in washing cuts and wounds to prevent infection. You can also use it as a mouthwash to relieve toothache.

Precautions & Warnings

Bayabas tends to lower blood pressure, so this can be particularly risky if you are scheduled for a surgical procedure. To stop the risk of bleeding, do not use guava medicine at least a month before your surgery. For emergency operations, stop the use of this fruit and its leaves as medicine immediately.

Bayabas leaf extracts may contain substances that cause skin irritation. If you have certain skin conditions like eczema, use its leaves with extra care.

How safe is Bayabas?

When taken as food

The bayabas or guava fruit is relatively safe to eat as food. Guava leaf extracts may also be safe to use as medicine, so long as it is only for a short period of time. Excessive use of its leaf extracts may result in nausea or stomachache for some.

When applied directly on skin

Generally, Bayabas leaves are safe when used as a disinfectant for wounds and other skin diseases. It is also safe to use as mouthwash. However, there are instances when some people may have allergic reactions to some of the plant’s components.

Special precautions & warnings

Pregnancy and lactation

Bayabas has no known negative effects on expecting and lactating mothers. Typically, the guava fruit is safe when eaten as food, as it contains vitamins to boost the mother’s immune system.

When used as medicine, however, do not use Bayabas as medicine until you have your doctor’s consent.

Side Effects

The Bayabas fruit is generally safe when taken in as food. However, there is no sufficient information as to how safe it is to be used as medicine, especially in special cases.

For pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, eating the fruit  is safe. However, do not use it as medicine without your doctor’s orders.

Interactions

More research is needed to establish the medicinal interactions with Bayabas. However, despite this lack of notable effects in guava medicine consumption, you should not rule out any adverse possibility.

If you are on any medication, discuss with your doctor first before trying out this herbal remedy.

Dosage and Forms

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your herbalist or doctor before using this medication.

What is the usual dose for Bayabas?

Boil a fresh cup of Bayabas leaves in three to four cups of water for 10 minutes. Strain the decoction and let cool.

Antiseptic. Use as an antiseptic by washing the wound or affected area at least twice a day. It also promotes faster healing as a vaginal wash after childbirth.

Mouthwash. Gargle the Bayabas leaves decoction as needed.

Tooth decay prevention and gum health. For the treatment of gum swelling and tooth decay, chew fresh Bayabas leaves.

Treatment for skin disorders. Apply the concoction onto the affected area with a cotton ball or pad.

What form does Bayabas come in?

Bayabas herbal medicine uses and preparation include the use of leaves in the form of a decoction. You can also use fresh leaves to treat wounds directly.

Learn more about Herbal Medicine here.