Guayusa Benefits, Side Effects and How To Brew
Guayusa Benefits, Side Effects And How To Brew
Found where the Ecuadorian Amazon meets the Andes Mountain range, the Guayusa (why-you-sa) leaf is a health-giving herb that’s cultivated deep within the rainforest.
The Guayusa benefits include increased energy, mood, concentration, immunity and digestion. It’s incredibly rich in antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and minerals, boasting a smooth and slightly sweet flavour.
While Guayusa is only recently coming to market in Australia, it’s been cultivated and consumed by the Kichwa tribes in Ecuador for over 2000 years. In this pristine part of the world, Guayusa is an integral part of their culture, livelihood, morning ritual and connection to each other.
But more than that, Guayusa supports the natural environment. It’s grown using agroforestry principles, which means Guayusa and the surrounding rainforest can coexist. Guayusa leaves thrive in the shade of large canopies, also helping to restore areas that have suffered from deforestation.
So, imagine for a moment you’re taking a journey to this breathtaking part of the world, as we guide you through some of the benefits of Guayusa tea.
5 Guayusa Tea Benefits
Energy
The caffeine in Guayusa tea gives you an incredible boost of energy. But unlike coffee (which is infamous for its spike and sudden crash) the energy in Guayusa is slow release. It contains two beneficial compounds, L-theanine and Theobromine, which contribute to long-lasting energy, while also acting as a relaxant.
Mood
Studies show that theobromine provides more than physical and mental energy. When consumed alongside caffeine, theobromine can relax the mind and boost your mood. Theobromine is well known for its presence in cacao (good news for chocolate lovers) – but turns out, it’s abundant in Guayusa, too.
Digestion
As Hippocrates once said, “all disease begins in the gut.” This is why it’s so important to care for our gut microbiome. The Kichwa people in Ecuador use Guayusa as a stomach tonic, as it contains compounds that may reduce inflammation and prevent bloating.
But full transparency, Guayusa hasn’t quite entered the research spotlight it deserves, so studies to support this are limited (keep watching this space).
Blood sugar
High blood sugar is linked to type 2 diabetes and other health concerns.
While research is still in its infancy, one animal study put Guayusa to the test, and found it to significantly lower blood sugar levels and aid weight loss. Once again, more human research is needed, but the early signs are promising.
Immunity
The vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in Guayusa work to kick-start your immune system. Guayusa has an impressive concentration of antioxidants, which work to neutralise free radicals in the body (caused by toxins we are exposed to each day). This contributes to overall immunity and vitality.
These are some of the most well-known benefits you may experience after consuming Guayusa. To dive a little deeper, check out these 9 impressive and little-known health benefits.
What Are The Guayusa Tea Side Effects?
As with any caffeinated drink, limit your intake of Guayusa to avoid symptoms like restlessness and anxiety. The side effects of Guayusa are comparable to drinks like Green Tea and Yerba Mate. In other words, incredibly safe in moderation.
How To Brew Guayusa Tea
Guayusa can be enjoyed hot or cold depending on your preference and the season.
For loose-leaf tea, we recommend adding 1 teaspoon per teapot, then brew for 7 minutes and enjoy.
For tea bags, we recommend 1 bag per cup, then brew for 2 – 3 minutes and enjoy.
At Ayusa tea, we have three incredible blends for you to try:
- Pure Guayusa for a subtle, smooth and full-bodied flavour
- Guayusa and Cinnamon Myrtle for an added cinnamon aroma
- Guayusa and Anise Myrtle for a subtle licorice flavour
With every purchase, we donate $1 to the Ecuadorian Foundation Conciencia Amazonica so they can continue sharing Guayusa with the world.
Written by Natasha Fair, founder of Ayusa Tea.
Resources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21839757/
