# Costa Rican Golden Guava (Psidium guajava)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/costa-rican-golden-guava-psidium-guajava
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-15
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Psidium guajava, Guava, Guayaba

## Overview

Costa Rican Golden Guava is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which contribute to its potent [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). These compounds collectively support [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and metabolic balance through various cellular protective mechanisms.

## Health Benefits

- Boosts [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and supports [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) due to its exceptionally high vitamin C content.
- Promotes [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) through its rich dietary fiber, aiding regularity and supporting gut microbiota.
- Helps regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to metabolic balance.
- Supports [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) wellness by improving cholesterol levels and reducing [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant).
- Combats oxidative stress with a rich array of antioxidants, supporting overall cellular health.
- Enhances natural energy levels and promotes hydration due to its water content and nutrient profile.

## Mechanism of Action

The health benefits of Costa Rican Golden Guava are primarily attributed to its rich profile of bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and carotenoids. The ethyl acetate fraction of its extracts exhibits potent [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), with specific compounds like sinapic aldehyde and various ellagic acid derivatives contributing to cellular protection.

## Clinical Summary

Extensive research supports the immune-boosting and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties of Costa Rican Golden Guava, particularly due to its high vitamin C content. Studies also indicate its potential in blood sugar regulation and [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) wellness, validating many traditional uses. However, specific large-scale clinical trial data detailing sample sizes and precise outcomes for human health endpoints remain limited.

## Nutritional Profile

- Macros: Dietary Fiber (aids [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)), Low Glycemic Index (suitable for blood sugar management).
- Vitamins: Vitamin C (over 200% RDI per fruit, boosting [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support)), Vitamin A.
- Minerals: Potassium, Magnesium (supporting electrolyte balance and muscle function).
- Phytochemicals: Carotenoids, Flavonoids, Quercetin (potent [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s providing [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and protective effects).

## Dosage & Preparation

- Common forms: Fresh fruit, smoothies, juices, desserts, jams, preserves.
- Traditional use: Consumed fresh as a snack, blended into beverages, or stewed for jams.
- Preparation: Wash thoroughly, slice, and eat with or without skin. Seeds are edible but can be removed.
- Recommended dosage: 1–2 fruits (150–300 grams) daily for optimal health benefits.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

As a commonly consumed fruit, Costa Rican Golden Guava is generally considered safe. However, specific clinical trial data regarding potential side effects, drug interactions, or contraindications, especially when consumed in concentrated forms or medicinal dosages, are limited. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare provider before using it beyond typical dietary consumption.

## Scientific Research

Extensive research supports the Costa Rican Golden Guava's benefits, particularly its high vitamin C content for immune health and its [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) profile. Studies also indicate its role in blood sugar regulation and [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) wellness, validating its traditional uses.

## Historical & Cultural Context

The Costa Rican Golden Guava has been a cornerstone of traditional Costa Rican medicine for generations, serving as a natural remedy for colds, digestive discomfort, and skin ailments. Both the fruit and its leaves were historically brewed into teas to address diarrhea and [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation). Its cultural significance as a symbol of health and vitality makes it a cherished part of Costa Rican heritage.

## Synergistic Combinations

Role: Polyphenol/[antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) base
Intention: Cardio & Circulation | Immune & [Inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)
Primary Pairings: - Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
- Camu Camu
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What are the primary health benefits of Costa Rican Golden Guava?

Costa Rican Golden Guava is known for boosting immune function and supporting skin health due to its exceptionally high vitamin C content. It also promotes digestive regularity through rich dietary fiber and helps regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to metabolic balance.

### What are the main bioactive compounds found in Costa Rican Golden Guava?

The fruit contains several key bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Specific identified compounds include sinapic aldehyde, 3,3′,4-tri-*O*-methylellagic acid-4′-*O*-D-glucopyranoside, and diferuloylglycero.

### How does Costa Rican Golden Guava support digestive health?

Its rich dietary fiber content promotes digestive health by aiding regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiota. This contributes to overall gastrointestinal well-being and efficient nutrient absorption.

### Where does Costa Rican Golden Guava originate?

The Costa Rican Golden Guava (*Psidium guajava*) is native to the tropical regions of Costa Rica. It thrives in the country's warm, humid climate and nutrient-rich soils, making it an indigenous fruit of the area.

### Is there extensive clinical trial data supporting its benefits?

While extensive research supports its health benefits and antioxidant profile, specific large-scale clinical trial data detailing human health outcomes, sample sizes, and safety information are limited. Much of the current understanding is based on phytochemical analysis and in vitro studies.

### Is Costa Rican Golden Guava safe to take with blood sugar medications like metformin?

Costa Rican Golden Guava may have additive blood sugar-lowering effects when combined with diabetes medications, potentially increasing hypoglycemia risk. If you are taking metformin or other glucose-control medications, consult your healthcare provider before supplementing with guava to ensure safe concurrent use and appropriate dose adjustments. Monitoring blood sugar levels more frequently during combined use is advisable.

### What is the recommended daily dosage of Costa Rican Golden Guava supplement, and when should I take it?

Typical supplemental dosages of Costa Rican Golden Guava extract range from 500–1500 mg daily, though optimal amounts vary based on the product's concentration and individual health goals. For best results, take guava supplements with meals to enhance absorption and minimize potential gastrointestinal effects. Consistency is more important than timing; establishing a daily routine helps maximize the ingredient's benefits for immune and digestive support.

### Who should avoid Costa Rican Golden Guava supplements, and is it safe during pregnancy?

Pregnant and nursing women should consult their healthcare provider before taking guava supplements, as safety data in these populations is limited. Individuals with kidney disease or those taking blood-thinning medications should also seek medical guidance, as guava's bioactive compounds and vitamin K content may pose considerations. People with severe fruit allergies should exercise caution and perform allergy testing before supplementing.

## References

Research links: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/search/all/?term=Costa+Rican+Golden+Guava+%28Psidium+guajava%29; https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/search?query=Costa+Rican+Golden+Guava+%28Psidium+guajava%29 | Studies: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Costa+Rican+Golden+Guava+%28Psidium+guajava%29

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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