Guarana and Gurana Extract:Phytochemicals,Botanical Info and History.
Article Content:
- .Basic Botanical info of Guarana.
- .Phytochemicals and constituents of Guarana.
- .Guarana Plantation and Habitat.
- .Facts,Properties,Available forms:Guarana.
- .Uses Guarana.
- .Theory and Scientific Support of Guarana.
- .History of Use with Natives:Guarana.
- .Guarana Brief Summary.
- .Research Update:Paullinia cupana or Guarana.
Guarana Brief Summary.
Guarana is an herbal stimulant that contains a form of caffeine called guaranine, which is 2.5 times stronger than the caffeine found in coffee, tea and soft drinks. What makes guaranine unique from caffeine found in beverages is its slower release. That's because the guarana seed is fatty (even in powder form) and is not readily water-soluble. Therefore the body does not quickly absorb it.
Since the guaranine is released slowly, the energy boost that is experienced from guarana is not like that of coffee with its sudden rush and quick drop-off. Rather, it continues to escalate over hours.
While caffeine from beverages provides a short-lived energy burst that overheats and excites the body, guaranine has a cooling action that revitalizes and relaxes. This is because guarana contains other components that modify the activity of this substance. The end result is more beneficial to the body than tea or coffee.
Guarana accelerates the effectiveness of CLA, thus making CLA a more potent fat burner. Guarana has been shown to stimulate the migration of lipids so fat can be burned as energy. It is also an appetite suppressant.
Guarana aids in a temporary, natural increase in body temperature and metabolic thermogenesis through nutritional stimulation of the body's receptor pathway, which can induce the breakdown and release of stored body fat, thereby allowing stored fats to be turned into energy.
Thermogenesis refers to the body's production of heat, a normal part of metabolic processes. Thermogenesis can be enhanced by certain nutritional substances. When stimulated through appropriate dietary supplementation, thermogenesis is also a mechanism that increases metabolic rate. Stored body fat, if released and available for use, can provide the fuel for this increased metabolic rate. Other active constituents of guarana are theobromine and theophylline, which are called xanthines (a class of thermogenic substances found in coffee, tea and certain beans). They have some effect on increasing metabolic rate, suppressing appetite and enhancing both physical and mental performance. They also act as muscle relaxants and possess diuretic properties.
Guarana increases mental alertness, fights fatigue, and increases stamina and physical endurance. Native to Brazil, guarana is taken daily as a health tonic by millions of Brazilians. It is reported to help overcome heat fatigue, detoxify the blood and is useful for flatulence and obesity. In body care products, it has been used for its tonifying and astringent properties, and in the treatment of cellulite.
In the United States, guarana holds a GRAS-status (Generally Regarded As Safe). In 1989 a patent was filed on a guarana seed extract that was capable of inhibiting platelet aggregation in mammals. The patent described guarana's ability to prevent the formation of blood clots and to help in the breakdown of clots that had already been formed. Clinical evidence was presented in conjunction with the patent in 1989 and again in 1991 by a Brazilian research group demonstrating these antiaggregation properties. Guarana has a long history of use as an energy tonic and for mental acuity enhancement.
In a study published in the June 2001 issue of the Journal of Human Nutrition Diet, guarana extract induced weight loss over 45 days in overweight patients taking a mixed herbal preparation containing yerbe mate, guarana and damiana. Body weight reductions were 11.22 pounds in the guarana group compared to less than one pound in the placebo group after 45 days.
Guarana extract and fractions decreased platelet aggregation up to 37% of control values and platelet thromboxane formation from arachidonic acid up to 78% of control values. When platelets hyperaggregate and/or when excess thromboxane formation occurs, an arterial blood clot can develop, resulting in a heart attack or ischemic stroke.
In a 1997 study, guarana increased physical activity of rats, increased physical endurance under stress and increased memory, with single doses as well as with chronic doses. Interestingly enough, the study revealed that a whole guarana seed extract performed better and more effectively than did a comparable dosage of caffeine or ginseng extract.
Another Brazilian research group has been studying guarana's apparent effect of increasing memory. Its antibacterial properties against E. coli and Salmonella have been documented as well.
A 1998 toxicology study with animals have shown that guarana is nontoxic at even high dosages of up to 2 grams per kilogram of body weight. This same study demonstrated guarana's antioxidant properties saying, "Guarana showed an antioxidant effect because, even at low concentrations (1.2 microg/ml), it inhibited the process of lipid peroxidation."
A major advantage to taking guarana in an oil base capsule is its relatively slow release into the body. In a study published in the journal Pharmacology Biochemical Behavior, a comparison was made of the absorption of caffeine from coffee, cola or capsules. Based on saliva caffeine concentrations, the absorption from capsules was about 40% slower than that of coffee or colas. These capsules were not oil-based, yet the rate of caffeine absorption was still significantly slower than coffee or cola.
Safety and Toxicity: The toxicity of guarana has been assessed in cellular and animal studies. In most cases, there is no significant danger, aside from the side effects of high caffeine intake, associated with guarana consumption. At least one study, however, found water extracts of guarana to cause genetic damage in cell cultures although it is unclear whether this suggests any health risk for humans consuming guarana extract as a dietary supplement. As with any caffeine-containing food, guarana extracts can lead to insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, headaches, high blood pressure and heart palpitations. Guarana is not recommended for women who are pregnant or lactating.
Possible Side Effects:Guaranine, a chemical compound found in gurana, produces many of the same effects as caffeine. Individuals with conditions that may be complicated by high caffeine intake (including insomnia, depression, and pregnancy) should consult with a physician before adding guarana to their diet.
Although rare, serious side effects from guarana have been reported. Stop taking guarana and seek emergency medical attention if you experience :a serious allergic reaction including difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives; or irregular heartbeats or chest pain.
Other less serious side effects may also reported with the use of guarana. Talk to your doctor or health care provider if you experience:heartburn;upset stomach;loss of appetite;constipation or diarrhea;nervousness, irritability, or anxiety;sleeplessness;irregular heartbeats; or headache.
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome: Anxiety; diarrhea; headache; increased urination; nausea; nervousness; shakiness; tremors; trouble sleeping; upset stomach; vomiting.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur: Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); agitation; irregular heartbeat; seizures.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
Dangers and Risks of Gurana:
Guarana, or its active constituent caffeine, should not be taken when formulated with performance-enhancing supplements and dangerous herbs in diet aids or . Potentially fatal irregular heartbeats have been reported to occur.
Guarana has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of guarana may not be known. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.
Theoretically, it is possible to overdose on caffeine or guarana. The fatal dose has been estimated at 10 grams of pure caffeine / guaranine (taken at once!). Guarana seeds contain maximal 10% caffeine, so when you would swallow at least 100 grams guarana seeds at once, things start to look ugly. Our advice: don't even think about it.
To put all of this in perspective: the average cup of coffee contains 65-130 milligrams of caffeine; some very strong guarana-based syrups can contain up to 350 milligrams. Look at our caffeine chart for more info.
People with cardiac problems or a high blood pressure should avoid Guarana (and smoking or drinking coffee, for that matter) When in doubt - consult your doctor.
As with all stimulants, dependency may occur.
Check with your doctor before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter. This includes any medicines that contain caffeine.
Do not take guarana if your doctor has told you to avoid caffeine. Avoid large amounts of caffeine-containing foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, cocoa, cola drinks, and chocolate.
This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as safe and effective for any medical condition. The long-term safety of herbal products is not known. Before using any alternative medicine, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not use this product if you are pregnant. Do not breast-feed while using this product.
Stopping guarana after regular daily use may result in WITHDRAWAL symptoms (eg, anxiety, headache, irritability).
Before using Guarana
Some medical conditions may interact with Guarana . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
if you are planning to become pregnant
if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
if you have a history of irregular heartbeat, heart or liver problems, panic attacks, or sleeping problems
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Guarana . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
Fluoroquinolones (eg, ciprofloxacin) because actions and side effects of Guarana , such as increased nervousness and heartbeat, may occur
Theophyllines because the actions and side effects may be increased by Guarana . Theophylline levels may need to be monitored closely. Check with your doctor.
This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Guarana may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.
Who should not take guarana?
Guarana, or its active constituent caffeine, should not be taken when formulated with ephedrine in diet aids or performance-enhancing supplements. Potentially fatal irregular heartbeats have been reported to occur.
Talk to your doctor or health care provider before taking guarana if you have:
heart problems or high blood pressure,
kidney disease,
an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), or
an anxiety or nervous disorder.
Do NOT use Guarana if:you are allergic to any ingredient in Guarana,you are pregnant or breast-feeding,Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
Guarana contains a large amount of caffeine which may be problematic if used by people with any of the conditions listed above. You may not be able to use guarana, or your doctor or health care provider may recommend a lower dose or special monitoring.
Before taking guarana, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you have allergies (especially to plants), have any medical condition, or if you take other medicines or other herbal/health supplements. Guarana may not be recommended in some situations.
Do not take guarana without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. Guarana contains a large amount of caffeine. Do not take guarana without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Guarana contains a large amount of caffeine, which may cause restlessness, sleep disorders, and other effects in breast-feeding infants. There is no information available regarding the use of guarana by children. Guarana contains a large amount of caffeine, which may cause anemia and other problems in children. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without first talking to the child's doctor.
How should I take guarana?
The use of guarana in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.
If you choose to take guarana, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
Standardized formulations of herbal/health supplements may provide a more reliable dose of the product.
Guarana is usually taken as a powder, mixed with water or another beverage.
Store guarana as directed on the package. In general, guarana should be protected from light and moisture.
What should I avoid while taking guarana?
The amount of caffeine consumed in other products should be monitored while taking guarana.There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking guarana, unless otherwise directed by your health care provider.
Value: Caffeine is certainly an effective stimulant that can help increase the general state of arousal and enhance mental and physical performance. It is also widely available in common foods (coffee, tea, cola) and is relatively inexpensive. For an athlete or exerciser who needs a little boost?before athletic competition or exercise, a moderate amount of caffeine may be helpful. For individuals attempting to lose weight, however, guarana and caffeine do not appear to be especially effective as stand-alone weight loss aids, but in combination with other thermogenic and nervous system stimulants, the caffeine may extend the activity and potency of certain supplement ingredients.
Dosage: Caffeine intake of 180-450 milligrams a day (about the amount in 2-4 cups of brewed coffee or 500-1000mg of guarana extract) has been associated with mild stimulant properties and enhanced physical and mental performance. Higher levels of intake are not associated with additional increases in performance, but may result in adverse side effects such as tension, irritability and nausea.
Reference:
1.Guarana and Gurana Extract:Phytochemicals,Botanical Info and History.
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