guayusa

Guayusa (Ilex guayusa) is an evergreen tree native to the Amazon rainforest, particularly in the northern and central regions of Ecuador and in parts of Peru. The leaves are harvested and processed to produce a caffeinated infusion that is consumed as a traditional drink and increasingly in commercial markets.

Leaves are dried and steeped in hot water to yield a smooth, earthy beverage with a mild natural sweetness. Guayusa contains caffeine and other methylxanthines, such as theobromine, with the exact amounts varying by cultivar and harvest.

Historically, guayusa is used by Indigenous communities, including the Kichwa and Shuar, as a morning stimulant and in social gatherings. It is prepared in a ritualized setting in some regions and is commonly shared among participants.

Today guayusa is sold as loose leaf tea, in sachets, or as an ingredient in energy drinks and other products. Production is centered in smallholder farms in Ecuador and neighboring areas, with many producers promoting fair-trade and rainforest-friendly practices.

Like other caffeinated beverages, guayusa may affect individuals differently. Potential side effects include insomnia, jitteriness, or increased heart rate, and it should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding individuals unless advised by a clinician.