Guarana | Paullinia cupana | 50 Grams

Guarana | Paullinia cupana | 50 Grams

Guarana (Paullinia cupana) is a botanical traditionally valued for its naturally occurring caffeine content. The seeds are processed into a fine powder or supplied whole, making them a versatile ingredient for drinks, smoothies and other preparations. Guarana has a naturally bitter, distinctive flavour, so it is often combined with sweeter foods or beverages.

Because guarana naturally contains caffeine, it can provide a stimulating effect and is sometimes used as an alternative to coffee or as an addition to a morning drink. Caffeine is known to stimulate the central nervous system and, in moderate amounts, can increase alertness and reduce feelings of tiredness.

How to Use Guarana

Guarana powder does not dissolve completely in water, but it can be stirred into a wide range of drinks. Smoothies, fruit juices, yoghurt and other foods can help mask its naturally bitter taste. Honey or another sweetener may also be added according to preference.

Guarana seeds naturally contain caffeine as well as other methylxanthines, including theobromine and theophylline. The exact caffeine content can vary depending on the variety, growing conditions and processing method.

When using whole guarana seeds, they can be finely ground before being incorporated into a drink or recipe. As the caffeine content can vary, it is advisable to account for caffeine from all dietary sources when using guarana. EFSA notes that caffeine intake can affect sleep, particularly when consumed close to bedtime.

Traditional Background

The name guarana is believed to originate from the Tupi-Guarani word warana. The fruit has a distinctive appearance: when mature, its outer shell opens to reveal dark seeds surrounded by a pale covering. This unusual appearance has inspired traditional stories among Indigenous peoples of the Amazon, including the Sateré-Maué.

Guarana has a long history of traditional use in the Amazon basin. Indigenous communities have prepared the seeds in different ways, including grinding them into a paste or powder for use in beverages. Traditionally, guarana was valued as a source of stimulation and as part of everyday cultural practices.

Today, guarana is widely recognised as a caffeine-containing botanical and is used in beverages, teas, food products and energy-oriented formulations.

Naturally Caffeine-Rich Botanical

Guarana is particularly notable for its naturally occurring caffeine. Unlike coffee beans, guarana seeds have their own distinctive botanical profile and are often used when a different source of caffeine is preferred.

For healthy adults, EFSA states that single caffeine intakes of up to 200 mg and total daily intakes of up to 400 mg from all sources generally do not raise safety concerns. Individual sensitivity varies, however, and caffeine can interfere with sleep when consumed later in the day.

Product Information

• Botanical name: Paullinia cupana
• Common name: Guarana
• Available form: Powdered or whole seeds
• Contents: 50 g
• Natural constituents: Caffeine, theobromine and theophylline
• Flavour: Naturally bitter and distinctive
• Suggested uses: Smoothies, beverages and food preparations

Important Information

Guarana is naturally high in caffeine. Consider your total caffeine intake from coffee, tea, energy drinks and other sources when consuming this product. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, adolescents and people who are particularly sensitive to caffeine should take additional care.

If you have a medical condition or take medication, consult a qualified healthcare professional before using concentrated caffeine-containing botanicals. EU rules for botanicals and herbal products can vary between Member States, so products intended for food or supplement use should comply with the applicable national requirements.

Contents

50 grams of Guarana (Paullinia cupana), supplied either as powdered or whole seed.