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What Are the Benefits of Guarana?

Guarana is an evergreen, berry-producing vine. The berries or seeds are used to create soda, syrup, extract and health supplements. Guarana contains caffeine, tannins and xanthine alkaloids, and the benefits of guarana, if used responsibly, include the promotion of weight loss, enhanced energy and relief from minor pain.

  1. Weight Loss

    • When used in conjunction with diet and exercise, the properties of guarana can help curb excessive feelings of hunger and promote weight loss. According to "Impulse: The Premier Journal for Undergraduate Publications in the Neurosciences," guarana works to slowly arouse the nervous system, which In turn can increase metabolism and suppress hunger. According to an article from Department of Psychobiology at the Universidade Federal de Saõ Paulo, guarana also has antioxidants. Guarana capsules designed as a diet supplement are available from health stores. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions.

    Enhanced Energy

    • According to the Alice! Health Promotion Program at Columbia University, guarana will provide a more sustained increase of energy. Guarana is known to be an adaptogen and according to Michael Castleman, a medical journalist, adaptogens are known for their ability to increase energy, relieve stress and bring lucidity. Athletes often use guarana as part of their diet in order to enhance physical performance and coordination. Guarana sports nutrition capsules and complex sports nutrition powders that contain guarana are available from health stores. Energy drinks with guarana are also available for those times you need a boost.

    Relief from Pain and Asthma

    • According to the Alice! Health Promotion Program at Columbia University, guarana has been used for centuries in Brazil and Venezuela. According to Leslie Taylor, N.D. in her book, "The Healing Power of Rainforest Herbs," guarana can help provide relief from headaches, minor migraines, joint pain, cramps and gas. Guarana also contains xanthine alkaloids such as theophylline and theobromine, which are stimulants. According to a presentation put together by the Health Sciences Department at Chipola University, these alkaloids are known to help open up airways in people who are asthmatic or have similar bronchial problems.

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