Guarana - Complete facts

Guarana is a plant which belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It belongs to the maple family category. It is a climber. The plant is found in the Amazon basin and Brazil generally. The berries of the plant are rich in caffeine. So the extract is used in energy drinks and other diet products. Guarana is preferred for its appetite suppressant properties. Guarana is an ingredient in almost all dietary supplement products, appetite suppressants and diuretics. However the effect of guarana on each person may vary, so it is advised to use it with caution.

Caffeine content in guarana is double of that found in coffee beans. The caffeine acts as a protective toxin which repels pathogens. The plant has big leaves and flower clusters. The fruits or berries of the guarana plant are brown or red in color. The seeds are black in color and are partially enclosed by white arils.

The Magic Of Guarana

There are mythological tales related to the origin of guarana in the Tupi and Paraguayan culture. The local people shelled the seeds, washed and dried it. They then powdered the seeds and kneaded the powder into dough. The dough was made into bread and then grated into hot water to make a drink. Guarana became known to the world due to the efforts of Hernandez, Cobo, Oviedo and Spaniard Chroniclers in the sixteenth century. Guarana was marketed in the year 1958.

Guarana is used as an ingredient in many food products like chocolate bars, chewing gum, energy powders, soft drinks, sodas, capsules and syrups. Guarana is known to give energy and reduce weight also. Fatigue and stress often wears people out. So having a cup of guarana drink energizes a person and makes him fit for working. Guarana is also good for detoxifying blood, dysentery, migraine relief, reducing gas, dyspepsia, arteriosclerosis, and rheumatism and cellulite reduction. The drink has been found effective in curing migraine, obesity and arthritis. However it may have side effects like hyperactivity, trembling, nervousness, palpitations, and urinary frequencies.

Guarana has many medicinal properties. It is a natural product which can be used to treat diseases like arthritis, headaches related to menstruation, digestion related problems, gout, fever, impotence, alcoholic hangovers and for treating low blood pressure. Guarana is now considered as a super food which helps improve mental abilities, fight stress, boost energy and increases endurance. People who have heart problems, kidney diseases, hyperthyroidism and nervous disorders are advised not to use guarana products because of high caffeine content. Pregnant women also should not consume guarana without consulting the doctor because it can cause restlessness, sleep disorders or other problems. It is also advisable not to give guarana to children.

Guarana as a Stimulant

Guarana stimulates the central nervous system, muscles and heart. It contains theophylline and theobromine. Guarana is gaining popularity as an energy booster. People rely on it to get the extra enthusiasm to work.