Guava or guajava is recommended as natural treatment for dengue infections here in Bali. As with most viral infections, from the common cold to stomach flu to full blown influenza, there is a disease process that has to be run through. Guava not only increases vitamin intake hence hastening the process, but also increases thrombocyte count, very important in cases of low levels that may result in hemorrhage.
The Fruit Proper
1. Guava is a rich source of vitamin C, and has five times more than what oranges provide.
This is one plausible explanation for why guava is indicated in dengue apart from its ability to increase thrombocyte count. The skin of the fruit (as opposed to the inner layer) is richest in vitamin C, and also contains beta-carotenes in abundance. Pink guavas (see above) are supposedly more abundant in goodness than the white ones.
2. Guava is rich in fruit fibers
This makes it good not just for those with Metabolic Syndrome (including hypertension, high blood lipids and diabetes) but also those with constrained bowel movement.
3. Guava has much more potassium than bananas (which also is a good source of fiber)!
This means that for those on heart medications that include potassium-depleting diuretics, guava is a good fruit to have as part of your dietary regimen.
The Leaves
Guava leaves have been researched to have beneficial effect on the digestive system. Infusion or decoction of the crushed leaves is used to treat diarrhea. More interestingly, the guava leaf is useful in the treatment of metabolic diseases like diabetes insipidus and gout, malaria, nephritis, vaginal discharge and uterine hemorrhage, wounds and ulcers (has astringent properties like that possessed by tea tree).
