Some groups of people may be at risk when using this water, due to the impact of compounds in guava leaves on the body. Here are 4 groups of people that experts recommend not to drink guava leaf water.
People with constipation or digestive disorders:
Guava leaves contain tannin, a compound that can irritate the intestinal lining, causing constipation if consumed in excess.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), people who often suffer from constipation or irritable bowel syndrome should limit their use of guava leaf water to avoid aggravating digestion.
Harmful effects: Causing indigestion and bloating in people with sensitive digestive systems.
It can make constipation worse due to its characteristics of intestinal lining tightness.
If you want to drink guava leaf water, you should drink it in small amounts and monitor the body's reaction.
People with low blood pressure:
Some studies have shown that guava leaves can help lower blood pressure, because they contain compounds that help dilate blood vessels. However, this is not suitable for people with low blood pressure, as it can cause dizziness, fatigue or fainting due to excessive low blood pressure.
Harmful effects: Strongly reduce blood pressure, especially in people with pre-existing low blood pressure.
It can cause dizziness and lightheadedness if you drink guava leaf water on an empty stomach.
People with low blood pressure should consult a doctor before using.
People taking traditional medicine:
Guava leaves can interact with some medications, especially diabetes medications, blood pressure and antibiotics.
According to research from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), compounds in guava leaves can change the effects of drugs, causing reduced treatment effectiveness or causing unwanted side effects.
Harmful effects: May affect the effects of drugs used to treat chronic diseases.
Increases the risk of blood sugar disorders if combined with diabetes medication.
If you are taking Western medicine, consult your doctor before using guava leaf water.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women:
There is not enough research on the effects of guava leaf water on pregnant women and infants.
Some compounds in guava leaves can affect pregnancy hormones or cause mild uterine contractions, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature birth if consumed in excess.
For breastfeeding women, guava leaf water can affect the quality of breast milk.
Harmful effects: Can affect fetal development. Causes hormonal imbalances during pregnancy.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid guava leaf water or only use a small dose according to the doctor's instructions.