GUARANA
Paullinia cupana Kunth
Toning 
Slimming Endemic to the Amazon region, guarana seed has been known for centuries for its stimulating and energizing effects, thanks to one of its main active ingredients, caffeine. When consumed, guarana seeds are said to improve alertness and help control weight thanks to their thermogenic properties. Read the detailed description
Our references
Regulations
and analysis
Identification : TLC
Data on traditional use
Cahier de l’agence du médicament (France):
- Intestinal transit and stool consistency
- Temporary fatigue
- Facilitate weight loss to complement dietary measures
EMA monograph :
- Fatigue and feeling of weakness
Association ideas by health axis
Select one or more axes:
Detailed description
Guarana seed comes from the climbing shrub Paullinia cupana in the Sapindaceae family. This plant can be recognized by its bright red fruits, which open to reveal a black seed surrounded by a white aril. Endemic to the Amazon region, mainly in Brazil, guarana has a long cultural and harvesting history.
Traditionally, guarana seeds were roasted and ground to prepare a paste with stimulating effects to boost stamina and stay awake. These energizing properties are mainly due to its high caffeine content, which is far higher than that of coffee beans.
Guarana is also rich in tannins, saponins and catechins, which confer antioxidant effects, boost energy levels, reduce fatigue and even contribute to thermogenesis.
1. Schimpl FC, et al., Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2013
2. Elizabeth Aparecida F S Torres, et al., November 2021, DOI:10.1111/1541-4337.12862
3. Brian Hack, et al., Nutrients. 2023 Jan 14;15(2):434. doi: 10.3390/nu15020434
FAQ
Guarana seed (Paullinia cupana Kunth) comes from a climbing plant native to the Amazon region, particularly Brazil. It is naturally rich in caffeine, as well as tannins, saponins and catechins, and has traditionally been used for its stimulating and energising properties.
Guarana extract is mainly used in food supplements formulated to support energy, alertness, physical and mental performance, and weight management. It is also widely used in energy drinks and sports nutrition products.
Pharmanager Ingredients offers several guarana references, including whole seed and plant extracts standardised to more than 10%, 22% or 50% caffeine, allowing formulators to select the most appropriate ingredient for their application.