Guaraná for Sports & Fitness
Botanical name: Paullinia cupana
Why do athletes use it?*
Some athletes say that guaraná
What do the advocates say?*
Guaraná contains a substance similar to caffeine, which could be responsible for
caffeine-like effects such as improving endurance performance. However, no research has
directly tested guaraná in athletes.
How much is usually taken by athletes?
Some athletes take guaraná during their training; however, there is no scientific
research to support this use.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
As with any caffeinated product, guaraná may cause insomnia, trembling, anxiety, palpitations, and urinary
frequency.1 Guaraná should be avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with guaraná. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
Parts used and where grown
Guaraná is an evergreen vine indigenous to the Amazon basin. The vast majority of
guaraná is grown in a small area in northern Brazil. Guaraná gum or paste is derived
from the seeds and is used in herbal preparations.
*Athletes and fitness advocates may claim benefits for guaraná
based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and
testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published
scientific articles on guaraná. For more complete and detailed information, including
references and safety information, see
Guaraná as an herbal remedy.
References:1. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, et al. (eds). PDR for Herbal
Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics, 1998, 1017–8.