Ilex guayusa – A traditional Brazilian tea leaf from the Amazon
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What is Ilex guayusa?
Ilex guayusa is a plant within the holly genus (Ilex) and is naturally found in the Amazon, primarily in Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru. The leaves have been used for generations by indigenous peoples to prepare a tea-like beverage.
Nutritional content in guayusa leaves
Guayusa contains several naturally occurring substances known from various plants and traditional beverages:
Caffeine – Naturally found in coffee, tea, and cocoa. For those who appreciate caffeinated beverages, guayusa can be an alternative.
Antioxidants – Plant-based substances such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which are also found in, for example, berries and green tea. Many choose to include antioxidant-rich foods in their diet as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Amino acids (for example theanine) – Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Theanine, which is also found in green tea, is one of the amino acids present in guayusa. Beverages containing theanine are appreciated by many for their flavor profile.
Saponins – These substances naturally occur in several plants, such as quinoa and legumes, and contribute to the plants' natural properties.
Guayusa is part of our range, including in Wake-up Wonder superfood-powder mix, where it is combined with carefully selected ingredients to suit a balanced and varied diet.
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