The Berry Behind Our Focus - Guarana

For centuries, it's been used by Indigenous communities in the Amazon for its naturally stimulating and therapeutic effects.

It contains an impressive range of stimulants, such as caffeine, theophylline and theobromine. Guarana also boasts antioxidants, such as tannins, saponins and catechins.

Here are the benefits of guarana, all supported by science:

Guarana is loaded with compounds that have antioxidant properties. These include caffeine, theobromine, tannins, saponins and catechins. In fact, guarana has an antioxidant profile similar to that of green tea.

A study found that people who took a guarana-containing vitamin supplement felt less fatigued while completing several tests, compared to those who took a placebo. It’s an excellent source of caffeine, which helps you maintain focus and mental energy. In fact, guarana seeds may contain four to six times more caffeine than coffee beans.

Research has shown that guarana may improve your ability to learn and remember. People who received either 37.5 mg or 75 mg of guarana achieved the highest test scores compared with people who received no guarana.

First, guarana is a rich source of caffeine, which may boost your metabolism by 3–11% over 12 hours. A faster metabolism means your body burns more calories at rest.

What’s more, test-tube studies have found that guarana may suppress genes that aid fat cell production and promote genes that slow it down.

First, the antioxidants in guarana appear to aid blood flow and may prevent blood clots.

Second, studies have shown that guarana may decrease the oxidation of “bad” LDL cholesterol. Oxidized LDL cholesterol can contribute to plaque build-up in your arteries.

Test-tube studies have shown that the antioxidants in guarana may significantly reduce age-related skin damage.

Guarana contains compounds that fight oxidative stress, a major risk factor for age-related eye disorders like macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma.