About
Guayusa (gwhy-you-sa) is an Amazonian super-leaf naturally packed with caffeine and polyphenols, so it provides a clean, focused energy. There are low tannins in guayusa, so it lacks the astringent, bitter taste sometimes associated with green and black teas. Instead, it tastes smooth and naturally sweet.
Ilex guayusa is an evergreen dioecioustree which grows 6–30 meters tall. The leaves are ovate, elliptic, oblong or lanceolate; 7–22 cm long, 2.5–7 cm wide. The flowers are small and white, arranged in thyrses. The fruit is spherical and red, 6–7 mm in diameter.
Seems like 98 percent of the guayusa in the world is in Ecuador. It is native to a thin stretch of the upper Amazon [that] hugs the Andes Mountains. While it’s a leaf brewed like tea, but it’s not actually related to green or black tea. When brewed, it has about as much caffeine as coffee. It is also incredibly rich in polyphenols, which are the most common compounds that comprise what we informally call antioxidants. Furthermore it also has a ton of chlorogenic acids, which is trending and hot right now for weight loss and benefits to the heart.
- Boosts metabolism
- Supports weight loss programs
- Aids digestion
- Aids elimination and reduce constipation
- Balances blood sugar and supports diabetics
- Boosts physical energy
- Increases mental clarity and alertness
Guayusa offers more caffeine than tea, yet less than coffee. It contains other stimulants in the same family as caffeine, such as theophylline– a clarifying and uplifting compound also found in green tea; and theobromine, a stimulant found in dark chocolate offering a pleasant feeling. This unique mix of caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine is what gives the balanced energy effect without nervous jitters and resultant crashes. Guayusa has what it takes to get you going, while stabilizing the release of caffeine in your blood; is easy on the stomach and doesn’t cause the stomach discomfort sometimes associated with drinking coffee.
Guayusa has a long history of being used as a digestive aide and in medicinal brews. This is primarily due to the high levels of naturally occurring compounds known as methylxanthines. Chief among these are theobromine and caffeine. When consumed in large enough quantities, guayusa helps to keep the digestive tract running smoothly and prevents infections from occurring.
Theobromine - is a compound found in raw chocolate, it can reduce inflammation and blood pressure while acting as a diuretic.
Polyphenols, flavonoids, and saponins - are phyto-chemicals believed to have cancer fighting benefits, and are potent antioxidants that reduce inflammation while stimulating the immune system.
Chlorogenic acid - is a phytochemical researched for its ability to aid weight loss by exhibiting anti-obesity properties and improving fat metabolism.
L-Theanine - is an amino acid that produces dopamine, the hormone responsible for producing a feeling of wellbeing. L-Theanine calms the mind while increasing alertness. It can increase focus, improve memory, and improve learning ability.
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