Native to the tropical rainforest of Brazil, guarana powder is best known as a natural energy source. Guarana powder is made from the seeds of the guarana plant. Guarana helps to increase concentration and stimulate the mind. Also known as Brazilian cocoa and Uabano, this is a climbing shrub with divided compound leaves. It is widely taken as a health tonic in Brazil helping people to overcome fatigue.

How to Enjoy Guarana Powder

Guarana powder has a naturally bitter taste so it works best when combined with other foods and beverages. Mix 1 teaspoon of guarana powder with smoothies, juices, teas, or other drinks. You can even take it as you normally would take your coffee, with cream or sugar if you choose. Add a pinch of guarana powder to your morning oatmeal, cereal, or yogurt for energy to keep you going throughout the day.

Health Benefits of Guarana

The medicinal virtues of guarana are probably largely due to its high caffeine content. Guarana has 2.5 times more caffeine than coffee. Unlike other stimulants such as coffee, the caffeine in guarana is slowly released into the body so that you can benefit from longer, sustained levels of energy. Taken in small doses, guarana can help improve energy levels, fight fatigue, and enhance mental alertness.

Guarana is also an effective appetite suppressant and may support weight loss goals. A 2001 study published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics found that an herbal supplement of guarana, yerbe mate, and damiana helped overweight patients lose an average of 11.2 pounds during a 45-day period. This was compared to a one pound loss in the placebo group.

Guarana is rich in plant-based compounds that may improve memory, alertness, and mood. According to a 2007 study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, consuming 75mg of guarana per day improved cognitive performance and mood. Researchers suggest that these effects cannot be attributed to caffeine alone. Guarana is also rich in nutrients like saponins and tannins which may support brain function.

Guarana is a central nervous system stimulant similar to coffee, but stronger. Anyone who has been advised to avoid coffee should avoid guarana, though it is rated GRAS by the FDA (generally regarded as safe). It is best to avoid Guarana while pregnant.