Guarana

Detailed overview

Guarana is a botanical extract from the seeds of the Amazonian vine Paullinia cupana, one of the most caffeine-dense plant sources by weight (up to 4-6% of the dry seed mass). Its stimulant effect comes primarily from caffeine, but tannins in the seed slow the release and absorption of that caffeine, giving a more even, drawn-out delivery of energy that many people report as coming with a gentler crash. The extract also contains smaller amounts of theobromine, theophylline, catechins, and polyphenols, which add modest additional effects. Controlled human trials show faster reaction times and heightened alertness rather than meaningful gains in memory accuracy, so the level of evidence is moderate.