Guayusa - an exotic alternative to coffee and yerba mate

Guayusa - the stimulating cousin of yerba mate

Ilex guayusa originates from the Amazonian forests of Ecuador and Peru, belongs to the holly family and is a close relative of yerba mate. Based on guayusa leaves, infusions with excellent qualities - not only in terms of taste and aroma - are prepared. Like yerba, guayusa contains caffeine, thanks to which it has a stimulating effect. It stimulates the nervous system, increases concentration and gives energy for action. On average, guayusa leaves contain up to 3-4% pure caffeine, making this plant one of the best natural stimulants!

How does Ilex guayusa work?

Stimulation is not everything. Some sources state that guayusa is rich in l-theanine, which affects the alpha waves of the brain, improving mental performance and concentration. The theobromine it contains makes the caffeine boost milder and more harmonious than coffee. Ilex guayusa also contains a set of vitamins, minerals and exhibits antioxidant activity. Antioxidants help to fight free radicals, which contribute, among other things, to faster cellular ageing. Guayusa for weight loss? Absolutely! The infusion stimulates the body's metabolic processes, which is an invaluable aid for those wishing to lose weight.

What does guayusa taste like? How should I drink it?

Guayusa is not only a healthy boost in a natural way. Infusion lovers will also appreciate its excellent taste qualities. The dried plant is characterised by its low tannin content, so the Ilex gu ayusa-based infusion seduces with its mild and harmonious taste and aroma with a wonderful organic note. Guayusa 's taste is reminiscent of herbal nettle tea. Due to its subdued character, the infusion tastes great in combination with other herbs and with yerba mate. It will also work well with the addition of fruit juices. How to drink guayusa? Preparation is easy and pleasant. All you need to do is pour 2-3 teaspoons of the dried leaves into a mug or matero, add boiling water and leave the container to infuse for a few minutes. For drinking, a bombilla will come in handy to separate the infusion from the grounds or, if you do not have one, a regular tea brewer will suffice. As an option, you may be tempted to add hot water again. However, the infusion will then be much weaker in terms of taste and effect.

Indian herbal tea - the mysterious guayusa

For several centuries, guayusa was a closely guarded secret of the Indian tribes of the Amazon. For the Jiwaro and Kichwa peoples, guayusa has always been an important part of tribal rituals. A dose of energy combined with support for the work of the mind proved indispensable during hunting, day-long treks or wars. The Indians appreciated the plant not only for its stimulating and health-giving effects. They believed that an infusion of guayusa helped induce conscious dreams, which were used to foretell the future.

Ilex guayusa available in the MateMundo.co.uk shop!

Pachamama is the first brand to offer organic guayusa. Its producer is a certified, family-owned company in the Napo province of Ecuador. All plants there grow according to organic farming principles. No pesticides or artificial preservatives are used. When harvest time comes, the juicy and ripe leaves are hand-picked and selected. Only the healthiest ones go into the packets. Drying is done using hot air, so the guayusa retains its chemical composition and its stimulating and health-promoting properties. You can purchase guayusa online in our online shop. Guayusa Pachamama is available in the MateMundo.co.uk shop in several variants - in classic and naturally flavoured versions. Take a peek below, choose one and start your stimulating guayusa adventure now!