HerbMate Library
Guarana
Paullinia cupana (seed)
Supplementenergycaffeinefocusstimulant
Guarana is basically ‘plant caffeine’—used for energy and focus. It can be effective, but it’s not gentle: dosing matters, and it can worsen anxiety, insomnia, and high blood pressure in sensitive people.
Key Benefits
- Energy and alertness support (caffeine source)
- Focus support in some people
- Often used in energy blends and pre-workouts
Common Issues It May Help With
- low energy
- fatigue (stimulant support)
How To Use (Simple)
- Capsules/powder: follow label carefully (caffeine content varies)
- Avoid late-day dosing to protect sleep
- If caffeine-sensitive, start with very low dose or skip
Taste / Notes
Bitter (powder).
Evidence Level
Caffeine effects are well-established; specific guarana studies exist but most benefit is attributable to caffeine/stimulants.
Cautions
Avoid with uncontrolled high blood pressure, panic/anxiety disorders, insomnia, arrhythmias, or during pregnancy unless directed by a clinician.
Interactions
Do not combine with other stimulants. Use caution with blood pressure meds, heart meds, and medications affected by caffeine (including some anxiety meds).
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