Guayusa Tea: Effects and Side Effects Explained

The effects of guayusa tea are said to be like those of coffee – only better and without side effects. Here you can find out what ingredients the tea is made of and how Guayusa tea affects the body and mind.

The effects of Guayusa tea

Guayusa tea is made from the leaves of the tree of the same name. This comes from Ecuador and is native to the Amazon. The tea has only been known worldwide since 2009. But it has been used by local people for hundreds of years.

• The Guayusa leaves are considered to be the most caffeinated leaves in the world. Fresh they contain 7.6 percent caffeine, dried about 3 percent. For comparison: coffee usually has a caffeine content of only 0.8 to 1.7 percent.
• Therefore, the tea is considered an efficient pick-me-up. After drinking, however, there is no caffeine boost, as is known from coffee or energy drinks, for example. Instead, one achieves a subtle but energetic waking state that lasts for several hours.
• The leaves also contain many antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory effects and protect our bodies from oxidative stress, as studies have shown.
• In addition, all essential amino acids and the active ingredients theobromine and theophylline are contained in Guayusa tea . These stimulate important functions of the body, such as circulation, digestion and brain activity.
• It also contains the rare amino acid L-theanine. This is said to promote concentration and at the same time have a calming effect by balancing out the aggressively stimulating effect of caffeine.

Possible Side Effects of Guayusa Tea

One possible reason to switch from morning coffee to guayusa tea is the coffee’s side effects. For example, coffee drinkers are more likely to suffer from heartburn, lack of concentration or nervousness.

• However, the unique combination of active ingredients in Guayusa tea significantly reduces the side effects of caffeine. It is therefore often better tolerated and achieves a more pleasant and efficient effect.
• First studies come to the conclusion that the consumption of Guayusa tea is harmless. The researchers put the tea on a par with green tea or mate tea, but also emphasize that further studies are needed.
• However, overconsumption of the leaves can lead to the same side effects as coffee. In concrete terms, this means that symptoms such as stomach pain, tremors, headaches or heartburn can occur.