| The guarana herb is
commercially promoted in the health food industry, among other uses, as a weight
loss agent and a smoking cessation aid. Guarana is considered to be an
astringent, containing tannic acid and related compounds, and is acceptable as a
flavoring agent and a beverage constituent. The herb guarana is permitted as a
food additive in small quantities, provided no claims are made. Guarana plays an
important role in the culture of the Amazonian Indians. In certain regions, the
guarana fruit extract is believed to be an aphrodisiac and to protect from
malaria and dysentery. Guarana has been used by the indigenous people of the
Amazon for centuries. Guarana was used to increase sexual prowess more than
anything else, as there was no Internet or Cable TV in those days.
In the United States, Guarana is generally regarded as safe,
with a caffeine content of 3-5% by dry weight. The effect of the caffeine in
Guarana results in a boost of energy and appetite suppression. Increasing
numbers of athletes, dancers and sportsmen and women are using it as a natural
aid to maintaining peak performance. Guarana is also perceived to bring energy
levels back to normal more quickly after exercise.
The guarana takes about one hour to be metabolized via the digestive system. The
slower rate of absorption leads to less tension in the body. The guarana is used
more effectively and does not lead to stress reaction which might happen in case
of high coffee intake.
Guarana is also known as;
Paullinia cupana, Brazilian cocoa
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