Guayusa Herb, Organic
Bulk Herbs: Guayusa Herb (Organic)
Ilex guayusa
Size: 1 oz package
Format: Cut
Plant Part: Leaves and Stems
Farming: Organic
Also known as: Waisa, Wayus, Guañusa, Guafiusa, and Runa Tea.
Origin: Ecuador
Organic guayusa tea is made from the dried leaves and stems of a South American rainforest holly (Ilex guayusa), which is a close botanical relative to yerba maté and yaupon. This tea has a full-bodied green taste that has a slight grassy character.
A tall tree native to the upper Amazonian regions of Ecuador, northeastern Peru, and southwestern Colombia, guayusa has been collected only rarely by botanists. It is known almost exclusively as a cultivated plant. Traditionally, the indigenous cultures of Ecuador boiled guayusa leaves in water and drank the tea for its stimulating effects. Indigenous hunters often drink guayusa to sharpen their instincts and call it the “Night Watchman” because it helps them stay awake and alert all night.
Shade-grown guayusa leaves are more nutritious and tastier than sun-grown guayusa. This difference is obvious just by glancing at the color of the dried material. Shade-grown guayusa, such as ours, is a bold, dark green, while the sun-grown leaves are much paler and lack flavor. Contains caffeine (1.73–3.48%).
Active Compounds: Caffeine, theobromine, L-theanine, Theophylline, Paraxanthine, Chlorogenic Acids, Quercetin, Kaempferol, Catechins, Ursolic Acid, Guanidine, Isobutyric acid, Nicotinic acid, Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), Riboflavin, a-Amyrin Palmitate & squalene, and Tannins.
Actions: Stimulant, tonic, diuretic, stomachic, Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, diaphoretic, expectorant, nootropic, emmenagogue
Indications: Guayusa is a caffeinated holly leaf from the Amazon, primarily consumed as a tea for sustained energy, mental focus, and high antioxidant intake. It provides a smooth energy boost without jitters, thanks to a combination of caffeine, theobromine, and L-theanine. Common uses include aiding digestion, supporting immunity, and potentially lowering blood sugar. It may act as a natural appetite suppressant and support weight loss when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Its anti-inflammatory properties are sometimes used to treat stomach infections, reduce bloating, and support immune health.
Precautions: Guayusa is generally safe, but its high caffeine content makes it unsuitable for those with caffeine sensitivity, high blood pressure, heart conditions, or anxiety disorders. Potential side effects include insomnia, jitters, and increased heart rate if consumed in excess. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid it. As a stimulant, it can worsen sleep disorders and anxiety. It may irritate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or stomach ulcers. Use caution if taking other stimulants or medications that contain or interact with caffeine.
Herbal Magick: Guayusa is traditionally used by the Kichwa people to induce lucid dreaming, foster community bonding, and provide "night watchman" awareness. Known as a "dream herb," it is said to have been gifted by ancestors to impart wisdom, offering energy during the day and a spiritual connection through enhanced dream recall at night.
The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated this information. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; it is for educational purposes only.