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Botanical name: Paullinia cupana
Guaraná contains a substance similar to caffeine, which could be responsible for caffeine-like effects such as improving endurance performance. However, no research has directly tested guaraná in athletes.
Some athletes take guaraná during their training; however, there is no scientific research to support this use.
As with any caffeinated product, guaraná may cause insomnia, trembling, anxiety, palpitations, and urinary frequency.1 Guaraná should be avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Are there any drug interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with guaraná. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
Guaraná is an evergreen vine indigenous to the Amazon basin. The vast majority of guaraná is grown in a small area in northern Brazil. Guaraná gum or paste is derived from the seeds and is used in herbal preparations.
*Athletes and fitness advocates may claim benefits for guaraná based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published scientific articles on guaraná. For more complete and detailed information, including references and safety information, see Guaraná as an herbal remedy.
1. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, et al. (eds). PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics, 1998, 1017–8.
Copyright © 2007 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved. www.healthnotes.com
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.
