Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Guayusa (Ilex guayusa) is a caffeinated leaf native to the Amazon rainforest and has been traditionally consumed by indigenous peoples in Ecuador and surrounding regions. Its primary use is as a stimulant beverage, much like yerba mate, to promote alertness, wakefulness, and energy. The traditional rationale for guayusa supporting the sympathetic nervous system stems from its naturally high caffeine content. Caffeine is well-known to stimulate the central nervous system, which, in turn, can activate the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) branch of the autonomic nervous system by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness.

While there is little direct scientific research specifically on guayusa’s effects on the sympathetic nervous system, its caffeine content is well established, and the physiological effects of caffeine have been extensively documented. Traditional Amazonian use supports its reputation as a natural stimulant, often consumed in the early morning or during nighttime vigils to ward off fatigue and enhance mental clarity. There is, however, a lack of clinical trials directly measuring guayusa’s impact on sympathetic nervous system markers. Thus, its use for this purpose is justified primarily by traditional practices and the known effects of caffeine, rather than direct scientific validation specific to guayusa.

More about guayusa
More about Sympathetic Nervous System

Other ingredients that support Sympathetic Nervous System

Other body systems supported by guayusa

Products containing guayusa