Ilex guayusa 25 g

  Other names:

• Guayusa
• Guayusa holly
• Ecuadorian holly
• Amazonian holly
• Wayusa
• Huayusa
• Huayusa holly
• Yoco
• Agua de guayusa
• Night watchman's
  
  
  

  Characteristics:

Ilex guayusa, also known as Guianan holly, is an evergreen tree from the holly family. Other names for this plant include gyuausa holly, huausa, waiss, and weissa. It can reach heights of up to 30 meters and features spherical red berries, small white flowers, and large elongated leaves. It is a caffeine-containing tree and stands out for having the highest caffeine content. In terms of structure and appearance, it resembles the famous yerba mate from the same family. However, it is milder in taste due to its lower tannin content. Ilex guayusa also exhibits strong stimulating properties, similar to yerba mate. This plant is most well-known in South America, where in addition to its stimulating and healing properties, it has also been observed to contribute to the occurrence of "prophetic" lucid dreams. Ilex guayusa has been gaining popularity in Europe as it proves to be an excellent alternative to coffee. The leaves are harvested and dried to prepare the beverage. The resulting infusion is characterized by a balanced, delicate sweetness. Ilex guayusa is a plant from the Amazon jungle at the foothills of the Andes, known in those areas for over 2000 years. It is widely cultivated in most regions of South America, with the highest concentration found in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. Indigenous people inhabiting these areas consumed Ilex guayusa infusion daily, drinking it in the morning to gain energy, strength, and reduce appetite. It was noted that the plant was helpful during hunting as it increased concentration and alertness, earning it the name "night watchman." Guianan holly was also used in traditional medicine to boost the immune system, enhance libido, and improve digestive processes. Ilex guayusa contains various components in its leaves, including xanthines (caffeine), L-theanine, chlorogenic acid, theobromine, polyphenols, and many others. The plant does not contain tannins, so it lacks the characteristic bitter and unpleasant taste of tea and coffee. Guianan holly improves concentration, clarity of thought, cognitive abilities, and memory. It contributes to reducing fatigue and alleviating drowsiness. It mobilizes the body for strenuous work and increases overall efficiency. Guianan holly stimulates the nervous system and is often used for conscious dreaming. As a healthier alternative to coffee, it does not cause nervousness and, above all, is much safer for the heart. It stimulates the nervous system, has a calming effect, and additionally improves sexual drive and boosts self-confidence.

  Effects:

Ilex guayusa cleanses the body of toxins and heavy metals. It reduces free radicals, thereby slowing down the aging process. Certain available studies suggest that guayusa may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for type 1 diabetes treatment. Additionally, diuretic properties have been observed. Guianan holly is mainly used by individuals in need of stimulation who are seeking a healthier substitute for coffee, one that is milder and healthier. Interestingly, it is also used in cases of nervous tension, providing a soothing effect that would be impossible to achieve with coffee. It is worth noting its detoxifying properties, which can help after work in a polluted environment or prolonged alcohol consumption.

  How to Prepare:

To prepare the infusion, use approximately 10 grams of dried leaves of the plant. Pour water at a temperature of around 80 degrees Celsius (176 degrees Fahrenheit) and cover it for about 15 minutes. It is better not to use boiling water, as it can eliminate many of the nutritional components. Although the infusion will have a stronger taste when brewed with boiling water, it will be devoid of many beneficial nutrients that degrade at high temperatures. Similar to yerba mate, the dried leaves can be steeped multiple times. It is important not to exceed the recommended dosage. The optimal amount is 1-2 cups per day. Consuming larger quantities may cause irritability and sleeping problems.

  Contraindications

While guayusa can offer numerous benefits, it's important to be aware of certain contraindications and precautions associated with its consumption.

• Sensitivity and Allergies: Some individuals may be sensitive to the components found in guayusa. If you have previously experienced allergic reactions to plants from the holly family or other herbs, it is advisable to exercise caution or consult a doctor before consuming it.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is a lack of scientific research regarding the safety of guayusa during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women consult a doctor before using it.
• Drug Interactions: Guayusa contains caffeine, which can potentially interact with the effects of certain medications, especially those related to the cardiovascular system or sleep disorders. Individuals taking medications should discuss this with their doctor to avoid potential interactions.
• Existing Health Conditions: If you have any preexisting health issues such as hypertension, heart diseases, sleep disorders, or gastrointestinal conditions, it's advisable to consult a doctor before consuming guayusa, as caffeine may affect these conditions.
• Children: Due to its caffeine content, guayusa is not recommended for children. Children are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine and may experience unwanted side effects.
• Moderation: Even if you have no specific health contraindications, it is always important to consume guayusa in moderation. Excessive caffeine intake can lead to nervousness, insomnia, and other adverse side effects.
  
  
  

  Storage of Ilex Guayusa

To maintain the freshness and quality of Ilex guayusa leaves, proper storage is essential.

Here are some tips for storing Ilex guayusa:

• Dry and Cool: It is best to store Ilex guayusa leaves in a dry and cool place. The ideal storage temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C.
• Protection from Moisture: Moisture can spoil guayusa, so it's advisable to store it in an airtight container that protects it from exposure to air and moisture.
• Freezing: If you have a large quantity of guayusa and want to preserve its freshness for an extended period, you can consider freezing the leaves. Ensure they are completely dry before freezing and place them in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag.
• Suitable Containers: Glass jars or metal containers are good choices for storing guayusa as they provide protection against light and moisture. Avoid storing it in plastic containers that may absorb odors.
• Shield from Light: Light can affect the quality of guayusa, so it's advisable to store it in a place shielded from direct sunlight.
• Avoid Mixing with Strong Odors: Avoid storing guayusa in a location where it might come into contact with strongly scented substances, as guayusa can easily absorb odors from its surroundings.
• Regular Inspection: Periodically check your guayusa supplies to ensure there are no signs of moisture or mold. If you notice any changes, remove the affected leaves and reseal the container.

By following these guidelines for both contraindications and proper storage, you can enjoy the unique flavor and benefits of guayusa while ensuring its quality and safety.

  Based on Sources:

• Del Castillo, M., Ames, J. M., & Gordon, M. H. (2009). Effect of roasting on the antioxidant activity of coffee brews. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 57(4), 1393-1399.
• Farah, A., Monteiro, M., Donangelo, C. M., Lafay, S., (2008). Chlorogenic acids from green coffee extract are highly bioavailable in humans. The Journal of nutrition, 138(12), 2309-2315.
• Salazar-Martínez, E., Casas-Arreola, M., Vargas-Guadarrama, L. A., Pérez-Vázquez, A., & Velasco-Lezama, R. (2019). Chemical composition, antioxidant activity, and sensory analysis of Ilex guayusa tea infusions. Plants, 8(11), 494.
• Palacios-Chaves, L., & Campos-Chillón, L. F. (2021). Ilex guayusa: An Amazonian Functional Plant with Potential Health Benefits. Nutrients, 13(2), 443.
• Coelho, G. C., & Rocha, L. (2021). Ilex guayusa: An Overview of Its Phytochemistry and Biological Properties. Molecules, 26(7), 2087.
• León, R., Dueñas, M., Rubio, B., & Pascual-Teresa, S. (2016). Past, present, and future of Ilex guayusa: An Amazonian tea with potential. Food Research International, 81, 2-11.
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ilex_guayusa
  
  

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