Stimulants & Focus
Guarana Extract
Also known as: Paullinia cupana · Guarana seed extract
A seed extract from Amazonian guarana containing ~3–4% caffeine plus tannins that slow caffeine absorption. Produces smoother, longer-lasting energy than pure caffeine.
Effective Dose
200–800mg extract / day
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Moderate
Stimulants & Focus
Mechanism
Caffeine + tannin-slowed release, theobromine, theophylline co-factors
primary action
Best For
Sustained energy
Fat loss, Cognitive performance
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Guarana Extract?
Guarana seeds contain ~3.6–5.8% caffeine by weight — higher than coffee beans (~1.5%). The tannin content of guarana seeds binds caffeine and slows its gastrointestinal release, producing a sustained, smoother energy curve. Guarana also contains theobromine and theophylline, which have mild stimulant and bronchodilatory effects.
How It Works: The Science
Caffeine in guarana acts identically to synthetic caffeine — adenosine receptor antagonism, catecholamine release. The tannin-caffeine complexes resist enzymatic breakdown in the stomach, releasing caffeine gradually in the intestine. Theobromine provides a mild, longer-duration vasodilatory and bronchodilatory effect complementary to caffeine.
Primary Mechanism
Caffeine + tannin-slowed release, theobromine, theophylline co-factors
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
200–800mg extract / day
200–800mg standardised extract (providing ~50–200mg caffeine equivalent). Account for total caffeine intake from all sources. Standardised extracts are preferable to whole seed powder for predictable dosing.
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Same considerations as caffeine — anxiety, insomnia, cardiovascular effects at high doses. Total caffeine from all sources should stay under 400mg/day for most healthy adults.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Those preferring natural stimulant sources over synthetic caffeine. Good option in energy drinks, pre-workouts, or fat burners where a smoother energy curve is desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →