How to prepare guava leaves?
As an infusion
Count approximately 3 g of dried leaves per 250 ml of water.
Crumple or roughly break the leaves, pour simmering water over them, cover and let infuse for 5 to 10 minutes before straining.
The infusion time can be adjusted according to the desired intensity.
As a decoction
Place the leaves in water, gently bring to a simmer for a few minutes, then let stand before straining.
Decoction yields a stronger cup than infusion.
What does guava leaf infusion taste like?
Do not expect the sweet taste of guava: the leaf has a completely different profile from the fruit.
When brewed, it develops a vegetal, herbaceous, and slightly astringent flavor. To visualize it, it is closer to the world of a light green tea or a leaf infusion than a fruity infusion.
It can be drunk on its own or combined, according to taste, with ginger, lemongrass, mint, or lemon.
A familiar leaf in Madagascar
In Madagascar, many leaves are picked, dried, and prepared for daily use. Guava is one of these familiar trees, whose leaves can be prepared as an infusion or decoction.
It is also this emphasis on the leaf itself that interests us at Kintavolana: offering a whole, identifiable material, and simply explaining how to prepare it.
The traditional uses associated with guava and the research dedicated to this plant will be discussed separately in our Journal.
A whole leaf
We have chosen to keep the leaves whole rather than grinding them into powder.
A guava leaf is recognized by its oval shape and its very prominent secondary veins.
Like any minimally processed plant material, its size, shape, and hue can naturally vary from one leaf to another.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are guava leaves and guava tree leaves the same thing?
Yes. Guava is the fruit of the guava tree (Psidium guajava). The terms "guava leaves" and "guava tree leaves" are commonly used to refer to the leaves of the same tree.
How do you make guava leaf tea?
Roughly crumple the dried leaves, pour simmering water over them, and let infuse, covered, for about 5 to 10 minutes before straining.
What do guava leaves taste like?
Unlike the fruit, their taste is not sweet or particularly fruity. The infusion is rather vegetal and herbaceous, with a slight astringency.
Can the leaves be prepared as a decoction?
Yes. They can also be prepared as a decoction to obtain a stronger cup.
Why might the leaves be different from one sachet to another?
Because they are whole and minimally processed leaves. Their size, shape, and color vary naturally.