Nutri Herb

Health and Wellness Library:  Guarana

a historical look at the traditional use of Guarana throughout the world

Botanical Name

Paullinia Cupana

About Guarana

Guarana is a native shrub of South America and the Amazon Basin. It is mostly grown in a small area of northern Brazil. The guarana gum, or guarana paste, is derived from the seeds and contains tannins which act as astringents. The seeds contain approximately 3-5% of guaranine (similar to caffeine) and are often crushed and dried by South American natives and used as a stimulating drink.

Nutritional Role of Guarana

The substance guaranine in guarana has traces of alkaloids like theophylline and theobromine (which are found in chocolate and cocoa, too), and these alkaloids work as a stimulant to increase mental and physical alertness and performance. Guarana acts as a weight loss aid by increasing the metabolic rate and reducing the appetite.

Traditional Uses of Guarana

• For astringent properties


• For diuretic properites


• For energy and physical performance


• For mental alertness


• For PMS - related headaches


• For appetite suppressant


• For weight loss

Research on the Historical Usage Guidelines of Guarana

Pregnant or lactating women should not take this herb. Guarana is safe when taken in moderation. Due to guarinine effects, when used in large amounts, some people could experience similar caffeine-like symptoms as insomnia, trembling, palpitations and urinary frequency.

Guarana Facts for Informational Purposes Only

Readers should not use this information for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, but should always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any major dietary changes. This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice.