Guarana
What is Guarana?
Guarana is a plant predominantly found in the Amazon basin and is notably prevalent in Brazil (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6). The seeds of this plant are renowned for their high caffeine content, which possesses about double the caffeine concentration present in coffee beans (2)(4). Traditionally, guarana has been utilized as a stimulant, mild diuretic, and tonic, aiding in increasing alertness, alleviating hunger and thirst, and treating conditions such as headaches, dysmenorrhea, and digestive disorders (1)(2)(4). Various formulations of guarana are available in the market, including energy drinks, supplements, powders, and sodas (2)(3)(4).
Uses of Guarana
The potential health benefits of guarana encompass:
- Augmenting energy levels (3)(6).
- Cognitive enhancement (6).
- Diminishing inflammation (6).
- Alleviating fatigue (4).
- Improving concentration (4).
- Aiding weight reduction (4).
- Providing gastrointestinal relief (4).
- Alleviating pain (4).
- Benefitting heart health (4).
- Addressing age-related eye conditions (4).
Dosage
The appropriate dosage of guarana fluctuates based on its form and the user's weight (2)(3)(4)(5)(6). Typically, energy drinks containing guarana have a dosage ranging from 50mg to 100mg per serving (2). Supplements generally recommend a daily intake ranging from 200mg to 800mg, administered orally (3)(5). The treatment duration varies based on the ailment, but it usually extends over a long period (2)(3)(4)(5)(6).
Side Effects
The consumption of guarana might lead to certain side effects. Potential oral consumption side effects include insomnia, restlessness, gastrointestinal irritation, and vomiting, among others (3)(4). High-dose, prolonged intake of guarana can potentially be unsafe (3). Daily doses exceeding 400mg of caffeine have been associated with adverse effects (3).
Interactions
Guarana can potentially interact with some medications. Hence, it's crucial to consult a medical expert before co-administering guarana with other medicines or supplements (3).
Summary:
Guarana, predominantly found in Brazil's Amazon basin, is renowned for its seeds rich in caffeine. These seeds contain nearly double the caffeine concentration of coffee beans. Traditionally, guarana has been tapped for its stimulant, diuretic, and tonic properties, aiding in enhancing alertness, curbing hunger and thirst, and addressing headaches, dysmenorrhea, and digestive issues. It has been studied for various health benefits, from energy augmentation and cognitive enhancement to inflammation reduction and gastrointestinal relief. However, the plant can cause side effects, especially when consumed in large doses. Before pairing guarana with other medications or supplements, a medical consultation is advisable.
Citations:
(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589113/
(2) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guarana
(3) https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-935/guarana
(4) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/guarana/
(5) https://www.verywellhealth.com/guarana-benefits-side-effects-dosage-storage-7510718
(6) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/guarana-benefits