Guaraná for Weight Control
Botanical name: Paullinia cupana
Why do dieters use it?*
Some dieters say that guaraná
- helps improve weight loss results.
What do the advocates say?*
The herb guaraná contains caffeine and
the closely related alkaloids theobromine and
theophylline; these compounds may curb appetite and increase weight loss. Caffeine’s
effects are well known and include central nervous system stimulation, increased metabolic
rate, and a mild diuretic effect.1 In a double-blind trial, 200 mg per day of
caffeine was, however, no more effective than a placebo in promoting weight loss.2
Because of concerns about potential adverse effects, many doctors do not advocate using
caffeine or caffeine-like substances to reduce weight.
How much is usually taken by dieters?
Guaraná contains substances similar to caffeine that could be responsible for
caffeine-like responses in the body, including central nervous system stimulation, increased
metabolic rate, and a mild diuretic effect.3 There is no research demonstrating
guaraná is effective for weight loss on its own.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
As with any caffeinated product, guaraná may cause insomnia, trembling, anxiety, palpitations, and urinary
frequency.4 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.
*Dieters and weight-management 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. Leung A, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used
in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics, 2d ed. NewYork: John Wiley & Sons, 1996,
293–4.
2. Astrup A, Breum L, Toubro S, et al. The effect and safety of an
ephedrine/caffeine compound compared to ephedrine, caffeine and placebo in obese subjects on
an energy restricted diet. A double blind trial. Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord
1992;16:269–77.
3. Leung A, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used
in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1996,
293–4.
4. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, et al. (eds). PDR for Herbal
Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics, 1998, 1017–8.