6 Health Advantages Of Guarana: Uses And Benefits
Also referred to as Paullinia cupana, guarana is native to the Amazon basin. This Brazilian plant produces a mature fruit resembling a human eye. The size appears like a coffee berry. Over some centuries, Amazonian tribes have used it for therapeutic properties.
It comprises some impressive stimulants like theophylline, theobromine, and caffeine. Given below are the most important benefits of guarana. Let’s dive into the post and read the narration.
Table of Contents
#1 A Rich Source of Antioxidants
Loaded with compounds having antioxidant properties, it includes theobromine, caffeine, saponins, catechins, and tannins. It has an antioxidant profile similar to green tea.
One quick note: Antioxidants are important as they can neutralize harmful molecules – free radicals. Such molecules interact with cells’ parts, thereby causing damage linked to heart disease, aging, and cancers.
#2 Alleviates Fatigue and Stress – Improves Concentration
It’s an ingredient known for popular energy drinks. Besides, it’s a great source of caffeine that keeps you focused and improves mental energy. Guarana seeds contain 4-6 times more caffeine than regular coffee beans.
So, it can work by blocking adenosine effects that help the brain to relax. Studies indicate that guarana can reduce mental fatigue owing to cancer treatment.
#3 Assists You In Weight Management
As per estimations, around one out of three Americans is obese. Obesity is an emerging concern, and it may contribute to chronic diseases, such as:
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cancer
Since guarana is a rich source of caffeine, it helps promote weight loss. In addition, it also boosts metabolism. So, a faster metabolism makes your body burn calories at rest.
#4 Treat Constipation – Relieves Chronic Diarrhea
Guarana gets used as a natural stomach tonic for digestive problems such as constipation and chronic diarrhea. It might have anti-diarrhea properties since it is rich in tannins or plant-based antioxidants.
One quick note: Tannins are responsible for astringency, meaning they bind &contract tissue. It allows tannins to waterproof the digestive tract’s walls and restricts water secreted into the bowels.
Guarana also acts as a natural laxative. Note that caffeine in this plant stimulates peristalsis – a process activating contractions in muscles of the colon and intestines. It relieves constipation by pushing it to the rectum.
#5 A Pain Reliever
According to its humble historical roots, guarana got used as a pain reliever by Amazonian tribes. But do you know why it is an excellent pain reliever?
Well, caffeine plays a significant role in pain management, given that it binds &blocks adenosine receptors. Two receptors: A1 & A2a, remain involved in stimulating pain. After caffeine binds to the receptors, it reduces pain sensations.
#6 Improve Skin Appearance
Because of its strong antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, guarana is prominent in the 21st-century cosmetics universe. It gets used as an ingredient in lotions, anti-aging creams, hair products, and soaps. In addition, the caffeine content also aids blood flow to the skin.
In addition, it might reduce sagging in cheeks and improve skin tightness, thereby minimizing wrinkles. All in all, it may reduce age-related skin problems and protect against age-related eye disorders.
You can consume guarana liquid extract by adding a few drops to your tea, water, or juice. If you want, you can also consume it directly without diluting it. Learn more about the liquid extract from Hawaii Pharm and buy it online.
