Guarana: properties, benefits, contraindications, dosage

What is guarana and what is it used for?

He guarana (Paullinia cupana) It is establishing itself as one of the most effective natural stimulants that modern phytotherapy can offer.

Its seeds have a titillating effect that significantly exceeds that provided by a cup of coffee and that is why they have been chosen by many people as a remedy very effective in keeping up vital and enhance eloquence.

Guarana is a woody plantclimber, up to 10 meters high, with compound leaves, from 5 to 9 lanceolate and toothed leaflets.

It grows naturally in the humid forests of the Amazon basin, but its cultivation has spread throughout South America.

Flowers They are greenish-yellow, grouped in inflorescences, and the fruitsfleshy and red in color, contain inside the seedswhich are the ones used to obtain its effects.

Properties, benefits and effects of guarana

Guarana contains 2 to 5 times more caffeine than coffee itselfalong with other active principles such as theophylline, theobromine, xanthines, guaranine, choline and tannins.

These have effects on the central nervous system, acting more effectively than coffee. Thus, the guarana increases vitality and alertness in those who take it, decreasing the sensation of asthenia and nervous fatigue.

To study or to speak in public: Guarana has been indicated, in moderation, for those who need to show off, appearing bright and clear-headed, before demanding audiences, or as a support to maintain concentration on intellectual tasks.To improve motivation: among other benefits, it also helps overcome reluctance, lack of motivation or inhibition consolidate self-control.To increase energy: Reduces fatigue, nervous headaches and even helps counteract the symptoms of mild depression. It is also recommended in case of hypotension.For the libido: many people notice effects aphrodisiacs.For circulation: Guarana powders also stand out for their virtues as circulatory stimulant and antiplatelet agent, in the prevention of thromboembolism and arteriosclerosisto burn fat: Guarana powder is used as snap in slimming treatments.For digestion: It is also a good digestive tonic: it is beneficial for relieving gastroenteritis and stop diarrheaand how febrifuge and diuretic.

How to take guarana? Recommended doses

It should always be taken in the morning. It has a rather bitter taste and its effects are usually noticeable quite immediately.

The dose will depend on your presentation:

Guarana in pills: One capsule or tablet a day is enough, from 330 to 500 mg.guarana extract: if it is dry, 100 mg doses should be used and if it is fluid, 25 to 50 drops.Guarana powder: Just a pinch should be added to yogurt, milk or even on bread.

Guarana precautions and contraindications

In no case should its consumption be abused, and that you have to avoid taking it dailyjust like him consumption at night.

Guarana is explicitly contraindicated in case of anxiety, hypertension, tachycardia, insomnia, gastritis and irritable colon.

Jordi Cebrian. Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”