herbs - Guarana (Paulinia cupana)

What is it?

Guarana, an evergreen vine, is native to the Brazilian rain forest and has been used for thousands of years by the local Indian tribes. The seeds are used in herbal medicine.

Action

Guarana contains xanthines (caffeine, theobromine and theophylline), saponins, tannins and choline. It has stimulant, tonic, adaptogenic and nerve soothing properties. Its actions are very different to tea, coffee and cola drinks, as the saponins in Guarana slow down the absorption and release of caffeine into body. Guarana contains around 22% caffeine, which is a mild appetite suppressant and is known to raise body temperature which is thought to encourage the release of energy from stored body fat.

Uses

Our experts recommend Guarana for the following disorders:

• Depression
• Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)

Other information

Studies show that Guarana increases energy, reduces stress and improves mood and performance. It is sometimes used by athletes as a booster and as a general tonic for fatigue. On a day-to-day basis, it provides the vitality to cope with long hours of work or even a night out on the town.  Guarana is sometimes found as an ingredient in thermogenic slimming/energy products as it helps with fat burning and energy stimulation. It is normally found as tea, tablets, capsules or even chewing gum.

Cautions

• Even though the caffeine content of Guarana is low compared to tea and coffee, some people that are very sensitive to caffeine may experience insomnia or Anxiety. Anyone with sleeping problems should not use Guarana too late in the day.



• Guarana is best avoided during pregnancy and breast feeding and should not be taken by people with High blood pressure.



• Women who suffer with breast cysts are often advised to avoid caffeine and other related xanthines (in coffee, tea, chocolate, and cola drinks). Guarana contains a high proportion of xanthines, and women with this condition shouldn’t take it.



• If you are already using medicines containing caffeine do not take Guarana.



• When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with Guarana.

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk). The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.