Guarana Seed and Powder Profile

Also known as- Paulinia cupana, Brazilian cocoa

Introduction

Guarana is a name that is becoming familiar in the mainstream consumer world as a caffeine substitute in ïenergy drinksÍ. A native evergreen of the Amazon region, the guarana tree sets orange to red berries that have been used like coffee in its native Brazil for centuries. The seeds of the berry are dried, roasted and then brewed to make a drink that is at first bitter and slightly astringent, then sweet. Traditional uses for guarana include stimulating the digestive system, reducing fever and treating migraines.
Older texts contain reference to a substance called guaranine, said to be chemically identical to caffeine. More recently, many chemists argue that the substance IS caffeine, making guarana the highest source of caffeine available in nature. Guarana seeds contain 2.5 times the amount of caffeine than coffee does. Others state that guaranine is similar to caffeine, but is tolerated better by the body because it is not water soluble and is therefore released into the bloodstream more slowly.

Constituents

guaranine and the alkaloids theobromine and theophylline, caffeine

Parts Used

Seed

Typical Preparations

Brewed as a tea, in food and snack items, added to coffee, as a capsule, and in extract form.

Summary

Guarana shows many promising health benefits, though research is ongoing. Among the early results from various studies:

Precautions

Guarana is a central nervous system stimulant similar to coffee, but stronger. Anyone who has been advised to avoid coffee should avoid guarana beverages, though it is rated GRAS by the FDA (generally regarded as safe).
ItÍs long term use is not recommended and it is to be avoided while pregnant.

 

For educational purposes only
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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