subject: Guarana to Keep You Energized All Day [print this page] Guarana to Keep You Energized All Day Guarana to Keep You Energized All Day
The Guarana or Paullinia cupana is a creeper that belongs to the maple family. It is most commonly found in the Amazon basin. It is the fruit of the guarana plant that is most often used for its medicinal benefits. This fruit contains a caffeine like substance in significant amounts, much more than that level of caffeine normally detected in coffee beans. Not surprisingly, guarana is often used as a stimulant. Brazilians make extensive use of this natural herb to cure many ailments and to energize themselves.
The Historical Use of Guarana
The guarana plant is named after the Guarani tribe in Brazil. These tribals believe that this herb has some magical properties. Here, this herb is used to treat bowel complaints and also as a natural stimulant. German botanist Paullini discovered' this medicinal herb in the 18th century and brought it to the notice of the rest of the world. Today, the herb is most popular in its form as the Brazilian soft drink. This drink is believed to build stamina and vitality and is immensely popular not just in Brazil but also in many other countries across the world including the U.S.
Guarana as an Energizer
Most people take guarana to get rid of fatigue or to boost stamina. This is one reason why this herb is used extensively by older people who tire easily. The guaranine present in this herb duplicates the effects of caffeine and keeps the mind alert even after an exhausting day at work. Older people who have trouble with memory and reflexes find that guarana improves their perceptive thinking process. It also stimulates the brain so that the person taking it can work without needing to rest for longer periods.
Guarana also increases the body's endurance levels so that stressful activities or those involving immense physical strain can be carried out with greater ease. Cognitive improvement may also be experienced by those ingesting guarana.
Weight Loss Solution
Many older people turn to guarana supplements when they want to lose weight quickly and safely. The guaranine in this herb dulls the appetite so that the amount of food needed to satisfy hunger is reduced dramatically. This, in turn, leads to weight loss. Guarana is used extensively as a weight loss solution across many countries in the world. However, it is very important to consult a physician before this herb is taken for this purpose. People with cardiac problems should avoid guarana products that combine other products such as Ephedra as these could be potentially dangerous for them.
Other Medicinal Benefits
Guarana contains tannins that are effective in treating diarrhoea. This herb also helps in containing the pain arising from a migraine headache. Other than this, the herb also acts as a detoxifier, reduces gas build up in the intestine, cures dysentery and helps reverse the damage caused by arteriosclerosis.
In addition to the many Brazilian soft drinks that contain guarana, others may also have traces of this herb. The immediate energy boost the herb gives makes it a valuable additive in such drinks. Guarana is most popularly available in liquid form but pills and powders are also used by many people.
