Guayusa Tea Benefits and Uses – Energy, Clarity and Immunity

Guayusa Tea Benefits and Uses

Energy, Clarity and Immunity

From human health to environmental restoration – the Guayusa tea benefits are plentiful. Pronounced why-you-sa, this ancient superleaf originates from a type of Holly tree (Ilex Guayusa) found in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Today, it remains a daily ritual for Kichwa tribes in Ecuador who drink Guayusa to boost energy, mood, clarity and immunity. 

So pull up a chair and pour yourself a cuppa. We’re about to share the health, environmental and social benefits of Guayusa. 

Guayusa For Health

Beneath its energizing effects, Guayusa is also believed to boost immunity thanks to its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants defend against free radicals in the body, which in simple terms means unstable molecules. And our bodies need a perfect balance of free radicals and antioxidants to function well – and when this balance is off, health problems can occur. Research suggests antioxidants can protect against heart disease, diabetes, cancer and degenerative diseases.

It’s a wonder why Guayusa has been kept a secret for all these years. Perhaps its biggest claim to fame is its natural, slow-release energy (unlike coffee which gives you the jitters and afternoon slump). Guayusa contains L-theanine – an amino acid that can increase focus, and concentration, as well as promote relaxation without drowsiness. Not only that, the alkaloids theophylline and theobromine found in Guayusa are natural stimulants that boost mood and clarity. 

Kichwa tribes from the Amazon in Ecuador also drink Guayusa to avoid snake and insect bites, as well as symptoms of menopause and pregnancy discomfort. But for them, it’s more than a health-giving drink. It’s a daily ritual and way of life.  

Guayusa For the Planet

The Holly tree is grown according to agroforestry practices, which is where forestry and agriculture meet. There’s no need to clear the land to produce Guayusa, it grows harmoniously within the Amazon Rainforest. Not only that, it actually helps to replenish areas that have suffered from deforestation. To learn more about the environmental benefits of Guyausa, read our commitment to sustainability. 

Guayusa For People

Guayusa is not just a cup of tea. Kichwa people have been cultivating Guayusa for thousands of years. It’s their connection to nature and each other. Every morning before the sun rises, they gather to sip Guayusa. It’s an intrinsic part of their culture. And when you purchase a cup of Guayusa, you’re helping to generate income for these ancient tribes. But here at Ayusa Tea, we wanted to do a little more. That’s why we give $1 from every single tea sale we make to the Ecuadorian Foundation Conciencia Amazonica.

How To Make Guayusa Tea

In the Kichwa community in the Amazon Rainforest, the making of Guayusa tea begins before sunrise. They gather dried leaves and boil them in a cauldron over an open fire. Here, they gather and share stories, lessons, values and ancestral myths. 

But for most of us – this setting may be a little unachievable. Thankfully, we’ve made it a little easier. Simply add:

• One teaspoon per teapot and brew for 7 minutes, or
• One tea bag per mug, and brew for 2 – 3 minutes

And remember to take a moment to sip, enjoy and reflect with Guayusa each morning.

Try our Pure Guayusa Tea for a subtle, smooth and full-bodied flavour. Or try our Guayusa and Cinnamon Myrtle blend to add a subtle, slightly sweet aroma of cinnamon. We’ll donate $1 from every single tea canister we sell to the Ecuadorian Foundation Conciencia Amazonica  – so they can continue sharing Guayusa with the world.