Guava Fruit in India: Common Names, Health Benefits, and Fun Facts

Guava, a fruit cherished for its health benefits and delightful taste, is widely cultivated and consumed in India. Known by various names across different regions, this tropical fruit not only adds flavor to dishes but also offers numerous health benefits.

Common Names of Guava in India

In India, guava is known by several names, reflecting the linguistic diversity of the country. Among these, some of the prominent names include:

Amrood (Hindi) Peru (Gujarati Marathi) Peyara (Bengali) Pillow (Odia) Amrut Koyyapazham (Tamil) Perakka (Malayalam) Jaamapandu (Telugu) Seebe / Pyarilhannu / Sibe Hannu / Perale (Kannada)

Each of these names reflects the rich linguistic heritage of India, with some regions using specific dialects or names.

Health Benefits of Guava Fruit

Guava is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a highly beneficial addition to your diet:

Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Guava contains a high level of fiber, which helps in slowing down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, thus aiding in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Boost Heart Health
The high content of potassium in guava helps in lowering blood pressure, promoting heart health. Beneficial for the Digestive System
The rich fiber content in guava supports a healthy digestive system. Aid Weight Loss
The low caloric content and high fiber content of guava make it a great snack for those trying to lose weight. Immunity Booster
Guava is one of the fruits with the highest vitamin C content, making it an excellent natural immunity booster. Good for Skin
The antioxidants in guava help in protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals, promoting a healthy and glowing skin.

Additionally, guava has been associated with other health benefits such as:

Anticancer Properties
Studies suggest that guava may have certain compounds that could potentially help in preventing cancer. Pain Relief During Menstruation
Some traditional remedies use guava for its pain-relieving properties, particularly for menstrual cramps.

Fun Facts About Guava

Guava is not only a popular fruit in India but has also historical significance. Interestingly, the guava (Psidium guajava) is a small evergreen native to tropical America. It was first noted by European explorers in Mexico and Peru, and is now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide.

The guava plant is a member of the Myrtaceae family, with white flowers and is known for its evergreen nature. When cultivated, it is primarily pollinated by honey bees. The mature guava fruit is typically sweet but can also be sour, depending on the ripeness and variety.

Thayumanavan Balsamy, a professor at Kumaraguru College of Technology, highlighted the importance of guava in his answer posted on May 4, 2017. He noted the multiple names for guava in different languages of India, emphasizing the linguistic diversity of the fruit's recognition in the country.

Guava is not just a fruit; it's a symbol of cultural richness and health benefits. Whether you call it Amrood, Peru, or Peyara, this versatile fruit is a gem in the culinary and nutritional world of India.