Abstract

ABSTRACT The lifestyle changes observed in recent years are related to the increase in the chronic diseases that have become the main causes of mortality and increased expenditure on systems worldwide. Psidium guajava L. (guava) has several medicinal properties, e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities, which could be useful for the prevention and treatment of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. This study aimed to review the effects of P. guajava on human health and evaluate the commercial importance of the fruit. PubMed, EMBASE, and COCHRANE databases were searched, and PRISMA guidelines were followed. Studies have reported that the bioactive phytochemicals of P. guajava can treat respiratory disorders, gastroenteritis, diarrhea and dysentery, wounds, ulcers, rheumatic pain, toothache, anorexia, cholera, laryngitis, and skin disorders. Therefore, the use of P. guajava contributes to reducing the risk of or treati3ng several chronic diseases. It is also important for the economy of several countries that produce the fruit. It is noteworthy that this plant is safe for consumption since in vivo tests did not show toxicity, and mutagenicity, in addition to the low potential for drug interactions. The by-products of the fruit (seeds and skin) show future application in the food and cosmetic industries.