Guava leaf tea for sharp eyes: How to make it at home

From Ayurveda to medical science, guava leaves are valued for antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and plant-based nutrients. They are rich in flavonoids like quercetin and have antimicrobial properties. And the most popular thing made with the leaves is guava leaf tea, which is said to promote healthy skin and boost eye health too. Let us know more about tea, the art of making it, and its benefits.'

According to a study by the National Library of Medicine, the presence of numerous bioactive chemical compounds in Guava leaves (GLs) have been reported to enhance and stabilize different physiological and metabolic functions in the human body. GL also contains many secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids, triterpenoids, sesquiterpenes, glycosides, alkaloids, saponins, and other phenolic compounds. These compounds play a key role as immune stimulators and modulators of chronic diseases including diabetes, cancer, and gastrointestinal, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular diseases. GL essential oil also has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative activity.

The same study states that the evaluation of food–drug interactions of guava leaf tea (GLT), which is a functional food and beverage that is commercially available in Japan, showed no possibility of interactions between GLT and medicines, indicating the safety of GLT in terms of food–drug interactions. Borderline diabetics, who are at high risk of the development of diabetes, take GLT to suppress a rapid increase in blood sugar level after meals. GLT consists of carbohydrate and dietary polyphenols which bind to digestive enzymes and are known to contribute to health through poor absorption of dietary sugar or lipids.

Wash 4-5 guava leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Heat 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil and then add the leaves. Let them simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes. Turn off the heat, cover, and let the tea steep for another 5 minutes. Strain into a cup. Add honey or lemon if desired, and enjoy it warm.

Dr. Sahaj Joshi -BHMS- 3rd Generation Homoeopath in an Instagram post has mentioned that fresh guava leaves are a potent, natural source of Vitamin A, which is essential for vision. The vitamin A in guava leaves also plays a role in maintaining skin health, boosting immune function, and supporting proper growth and cell development. Consuming guava leaf tea or extracts can help provide this vitamin along with other antioxidants like vitamin C and flavonoids.

As per Dr Joshi, they contain flavonoids and tannins that help rejuvenate the retina. They are said to have carotenoids that support eye health and protect cells from oxidative damage.

In his video, he states that this combination helps reduce eye dryness and can prevent age-related blurry vision.

Traditionally, it is used to help with dizziness, eye fatigue, and shakiness, he states in his post. Ayurveda also considers guava leaves useful in managing blood sugar levels, helpful for people with diabetes due to their ability to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce sugar absorption.