Fact Check: Guava leaf concoction to cure diabetes? Don’t fall for random social media posts
Guava leaf extract or guava tea is traditionally used as an anti-diabetic supplement to manage blood sugar levels. As of now, there is no proven cure for diabetes.
By Sunanda Naik Published on 7 Feb 2024 6:34 AM GMT
Hyderabad: A post claiming a home remedy to cure diabetes using three simple ingredients is being widely shared on social media.
The viral post starts with a voiceover saying: “The leaf that brought out diabetes, the poor circulation and high blood pressure of my life.”
It further advises adding 6-7 guava leaves into a pot mixing a teaspoon of turmeric and a handful of black pepper into it. The viral video not only claims that this remedy would “remove the sugar out of your veins” but also claims that the extract would help in controlling high blood pressure and poor blood circulation as well.
Fact Check
NewsMeter found the claim to be false as there is no cure for diabetes.
Guava leaf extract or guava tea is traditionally used as an anti-diabetic supplement worldwide.
World Health Organisation (WHO) defines diabetes as a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose.
It should be noted that, currently no cure or supplement can cure diabetes can only be managed and controlled by making certain lifestyle changes.
Can guava leaf potentially cure diabetes?
No, but it can help manage blood sugar levels. A study has found that anti-hyperglycaemic activity of the guava extract has been reported in some animal models. However, little is known regarding the therapeutic activity of the extract in human clinical trials as well as its underlying therapeutic mechanisms and safety.
In Japan, guava tea is consumed as a part of the meal and is likely to maintain good health. Further, guava tea is recommended for individuals who are anxious about their high blood glucose and control of sugar uptake.
Another study revealed that guava leaf extract has the great ability to cut back plasma glucose and oxidative stress and conjointly ameliorates the burden of inflammation in Streptozotocinevoked diabetic rats as confirmed by reduced glucose and restored antioxidant levels, besides reduced expression of inflammatory proteins. More human trials are needed.
According to an article on Medical News Today, guava leaf tea may help prevent spikes in blood sugar and improve symptoms in people with type 2 diabetes. However, more human studies are required to establish a finding.
Can turmeric cure diabetes?
No, but it can help prevent and manage diabetes. The 2020 study revealed that curcumin plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of diabetes and its associated disorders. Curcumin could favorably affect most of the leading aspects of diabetes, including insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and islet apoptosis and necrosis.
Although, Guava leaf extract and turmeric both have anti-diabetic properties there is no evidence it can ‘CURE’ diabetes. Guava Leaf extract is not an alternative supplement to your diabetes medication. Consult with your healthcare practitioner before adding any traditional remedy to your diet.
