Guarana

DEFINITION

The Guarana vine has the botanical name of Paullinia cupana. It is also known as Brazillian Cocoa, Guarana Gum, Guarana Paste and Zoom.

DESCRIPTION

This plant grows naturally in the Amazon region of Brazil in South America. The herb is a climbing plant and supports itself in the huge trees of the equatorial rainforest. Guarana is a source of caffeine that acts as a stimulant on the central nervous system. The seeds of the Guarana plant are first air-dried and can be used in the natural form or finely ground and prepared as capsules, tablets or as an elixir.

INTERACTIONS

Herbal supplements can alter the effects of certain drugs, including prescription medications. Always tell your Doctor about any prescription medications, non-prescription medications, herbs or other dietary supplements you are taking.
-Guarana contains substances called tannins, which can block the absorption of iron supplements and dietary iron.
-Certain types of antibio tic medicatio ns (called quino lo ne antibio tics, such as ciprofloxacin) can decrease the breakdown of certain substances in Guarana and cause side effects such as anxiety, headache and irritability.
-People taking asthma medications containing theo phylline should avoid Guarana as it may increase the effects of this drug.
-Guarana may reduce the effectiveness of adeno sine (for cardiac arrhythmia).
-It is advisable for a person taking ACE inhibitor medication to avoid supplements containing Guarana. It is possible that Guarana may interfere with the hypotensive action of this medication.
-Fluid loss may be excessive when a herbal preparation containing Guarana and a diuretic drug are taken together.

MEDICAL USE

Always consult your Health Professional to advise you on dosages and any possible medical interactions.
Guarana contains a caffeine-like substance called guaranine (up to 7%). First discovered by a South American tribe, Guarana has been used traditionally for thousands of years as a tonic and a stimulant.
It has been suggested that Guarana may help the body with:
-Suppressing the appetite and as a result may prove useful for weight loss.
-Helping to relieve the pain of tension headaches.
-During periods of hard work, both mental and physical.
-When recovering from an illness.
-When facing a testing time, such as examinations.
-Relieving the symptoms of diarrhoea and constipation in some people.
-When tiredness impairs the ability to concentrate by improving mental alertness.
-When training or practising for sport Guarana is reported to help increase stamina and cope with the effects of extreme heat.

PROPERTIES

Energiser and stimulant.

NOTES

- Moderate intakes of caffeine are considered to be safe during pregnancy, however, it is advisable to consult your Health Practitioner before taking any supplement to the diet. Guarana contains about 5% natural caffeine.
-Individuals on caffeine-restricted diets should avoid Guarana, in particular those with heart problems.
-Individuals with diabetes, chronic headache or stomach ulcers should use Guarana with caution. Ask your Doctor or Pharmacist for advice.
-Possible side effects include insomnia, nervousness, irritability, palpitations, flushing and elevated blood pressure.

DISCLAIMER: The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or naturopath before following any medical regimen to see whether it is safe and effective for you.