Guarana

Species Name: Cupana.

Also known as: Guaranastruik, Quarana, Uabano, Guarana kletterstrauch, Brazilian cocoa, Cupana, Quarane, Uaranzeiro.

History states that the tribesman of Brazil believed that the herb guarana was a magical plant that could cure many problems.

This is where the myth about this herb being born through the eyes of a “Divine Child” that died by a serpent bite originated.

What is Guarana: Guarana is considered either a small tree or a shrub that belongs to the plant family Sapindaceae.

It is native to Northern Brazil and Venezuela. It is a huge part of the Brazilian culture and the seeds and fruit from this herb is used for medical purposes.

It has yellow flowers and divided compound leaves. The fruit is a pear shape with three sides containing three capsules with a seed in the center of each.

Today guarana is added to many soft drinks and energy drinks because caffeine is part of its chemical makeup. The natural caffeine properties that are found in this herb means that it can make it harder for you to fall asleep if taken before bedtime.

It can make you feel jittery if you consume too much and could reduce your appetite. As with other caffeine products it can give you a quick boost and improve your perceptions for a limited time.

Home remedies using Guarana:

Benefits of Guarana:

The seed that is found in the fruit of the guarana plant is beneficial when used as a stimulant for the central nervous system. It is also used for its diuretic and thermogenic properties.

Guarana is believed to be beneficial in strengthening the heart, reduce the chance of blood clots and aid in weight loss.

It can help to relieve the pain from headaches including migraines and reduce body heat to help prevent a heat stroke in potential victims.

Due to the fact that it contains caffeine it is a natural stimulant that has increased greatly in popularity.

Uses of Guarana:

• Stimulant
• Memory enhancer
• Antioxidant
• Weight loss
• Capsule
• Infusion
• Tincture

Side Effects of Guarana:

Some of the known side effects reported when using guarana include, nervousness, restlessness, nausea, headaches, dizziness and frequent urination. More serious side effects that should note concern includes a fast and irregular heartbeat, mood swings or black stools.

Guarana should not be used if you are pregnant or breast feeding due to its caffeine properties, nether should it be used by anyone who is sensitive to caffeine.