Guarana extract
Guarana extract – origin and botanical background
Guarana extract is derived from the plant species Guarana (Paullinia cupana). Botanically, this plant belongs to the soapberry family and is native to Venezuela, Brazil, and Peru. Its name is derived from the Guarani, an indigenous South American people.
Guarana grows either as a liana or as a climbing shrub and can reach heights of up to twelve meters. It bears small white flowers and later orange-red capsule fruits, each containing one to three seeds. These are spread naturally by birds and look strikingly similar to eyes. For this reason, the indigenous people gave them the name “eyes of the forest”.
The germination period of the seeds is unusually long, lasting up to 100 days. The indigenous peoples of the Amazon basin have known and valued guarana for centuries and have used it in traditional folk medicine. They also use the seeds to make a tasty drink that is as stimulating as coffee and is said to curb hunger. To do this, the seeds are shelled, dried, ground, and then mixed with water and a little honey.
Guarana – an integral part of modern energy products
Guarana is found in (almost) every energy drink today. Many Brazilian beverage manufacturers offer lemonades with guarana extract, which are particularly popular with young people. Guarana is also found in chocolate, chewing gum, tea, energy drinks, dietary supplements, and even lubricants.
Pure guarana extract is almost inedible because it tastes extremely tart and bitter. However, as an additive in food, it provides exciting and refreshing flavor nuances. Athletes and bodybuilders in particular have sworn by guarana extract for years, as it is said to have a performance-enhancing effect. However, guarana is generally considered more of a classic “stimulant”.
Its high caffeine content is particularly striking. Compared to coffee beans, it is significantly higher, amounting to about four to eight percent in dry matter. Other ingredients include tannins (approx. twelve percent), theobromine, theophylline, catechin, starch, saponins, and minerals. One gram of guarana seeds contains about 30 milligrams of fat and up to 76 milligrams of caffeine.
Medical effects and possible side effects
Guarana extract can increase performance and stamina and has a stimulating effect on the cardiovascular system. It is also said to have a slight fever-reducing effect. For many people, guarana – in beverages – has become a real alternative to coffee.
The stimulating effect sets in more slowly than with coffee, but lasts significantly longer, up to eight hours. Guarana extract is also known for its natural aphrodisiac effect. The combination of active ingredients it contains can stimulate the libido. The extract can help to rid the digestive tract of harmful waste products and toxins in cases of intestinal problems. It is also said to have a mood-lifting and stress-reducing effect.
However, there are also risks: since guarana extract can suppress feelings of hunger and thirst, there is a risk of dehydration, especially with excessive consumption. In addition, as with other caffeinated products, side effects such as sleep disturbances, irritability, headaches, muscle pain, tremors, or tachycardia may occur. People with chronic pain or high blood pressure should avoid guarana products. Oral intake of guarana extract is also not suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Guarana extract in cosmetics
Guarana extract has also long been used in cosmetics. It refreshes and invigorates both the skin and the senses and, thanks to its high caffeine content, provides an intense burst of freshness.
Studies show that guarana forms antioxidant enzymes and can reduce oxidative stress. Even at low doses, it inhibits lipid oxidation. In addition, guarana extract has an antibacterial effect against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
The active ingredient is ideal for shower gels, massage gels, skin care creams, lotions and – due to its circulation-promoting effect – for exfoliating products. When massaged into the skin, microcirculation is stimulated, providing skin cells with a better supply of oxygen and nutrients. Guarana extract is also very popular in anti-cellulite products.
In hair care products, guarana extract invigorates and revitalizes the scalp, stimulates hair growth, adds volume, and ensures thorough yet gentle cleansing. Shampoos and conditioners with guarana extract are often aimed at men, but this is more due to the distinctive character of the active ingredient – it is just as suitable for women. Guarana extract is particularly recommended for fine to normal hair that is not severely damaged.
Guarana extract profile
INCI: Paullinia Cupana Seed Extract
CAS number: 84929-28-2
EINECS / ELINCS: 284-512-1
Description: Light brown powder extracted from guarana seeds.
Key ingredients: Caffeine, tannins, theobromine, theophylline, catechin.
Effects: Invigorating, revitalizing, antioxidant, mildly antibacterial, stimulates blood circulation.
Possible uses: Shampoo, hair conditioner, shower gel, massage gel, body lotion, body scrub, anti-cellulite cream
Guarana extract – the perfect “wake-up call” for skin and hair
Guarana extract contains more caffeine than coffee and is therefore a real pick-me-up – also in a cosmetic sense. It visibly revitalizes tired skin and limp hair, ensures a fresh, alert appearance, can counteract cellulite, and helps reduce oxidative stress.
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