Guayusa leaves are used in natural medicine for their stimulating properties. In addition, it is attributed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Do you want to know more about its benefits? Keep reading!
The guayusa, whose scientific name is Ilex guayusa, is a tree that grows between 6 and 30 meters high throughout the Amazon rainforest and, especially, in Ecuador. Its leaves, which are elongated and bright green, are used in natural medicine as adjuvants to improve health.
According to a publication in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture , these leaves contain around 14 phenolic compounds with pharmacological potential. In addition, it has other bioactive compounds that give it energizing and antioxidant effects. Keep reading!
Guayusa properties
Guayusa leaves are collected and dried to make herbal teas. This drink is quite popular in South America, since it is attributed energizing properties. In fact, it is available in powder and extracts that are added to other drinks for an “energy boost.”
The reason for this effect is its caffeine concentration, which is compared to that contained in coffee. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that give it other benefits. According to information compiled in the Nutrients magazine , the plant is made up of the following:
3% caffeine.
Vitamins C and D.
Minerals such as magnesium, calcium, zinc, and potassium.
Chlorogenic acids.
Amino acids.
Alkaloids
Due to this composition, the plant is attributed other properties, beyond its energetic effect. In particular, it has antidiabetic, antitumor, antibacterial and lipid-lowering activity. In addition, its extracts act as a prebiotic and promote intestinal health.
Guayusa benefits
For now, the evidence on the benefits of guayusa remains limited. Because of this, it is not considered a first-line treatment for health problems. Still, there are some studies with promising findings on its properties. Let’s see.
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