Guavas, known for their rich vitamin C content, is a powerhouse of antioxidants and immune-boosting nutrients. But can boiled guavas help provide relief against seasonal illnesses like colds and coughs? An online content creator Mizna Khan shared how boiled guava chaat can help provide relief. “Boiled Guava Chaat is a home remedy in India for cold and cough. It can very well be the high content of vitamin C in the guava, or the soothing properties of black pepper that makes one feel better. But for me, it was my mother’s love and warmth that made this special. Making it again was pure nostalgia for me. My kids loved it too,” shared Khan on Instagram. Does it help? According to Shivani Bajwa, CEO and founder, YogaSutra Holistic Living and functional medicine and health expert, the steam from the boiled guava chaat can help relieve nasal congestion, a common woe during colds, by opening up the airways and facilitating easier breathing. “Moreover, guavas contain natural sugars and essential nutrients that provide the body with energy, helping combat fatigue often associated with illness. The chat's warmth can also soothe a sore throat, providing relief from the irritation caused by incessant coughing,” shared Bajwa. One of the key components of guavas is quercetin, a flavonoid known for its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. These qualities may contribute to reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms. Additionally, guava's high fibre content aids in digestion, promoting overall gut health, which is crucial for a robust immune system, added Bajwa. However, keep in mind that it is not a substitute for professional medical advice or prescribed treatments. “It serves as a natural and delicious supplement to conventional cold remedies. Guavas not only offer relief from cold and cough symptoms but also provide a flavourful way to enhance overall well-being during the winters,” said Bajwa. Boiled Guava Chaat recipe from Khan Ingredients 2 medium ripe guavas 2 tsp brown sugar 50 ml water Some freshly crushed black pepper A pinch of chaat masala (or black salt) Squeeze of lemon juice Method *Wash the guavas and dice into small pieces. *Transfer to a pot, along with sugar and water. Mix to combine. Cover and cook on low heat for about 10-15 minutes (until guava is tender). *Roughly mash using a potato masher. Add the black pepper, chaat masala (or salt) and lemon juice. Mix and enjoy warm. “If you have a sore throat and want to avoid chaat masala, add black salt instead,” said Khan. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mizna Khan | Family-Friendly Food (@indisch.windisch)
