Guayusa, originally popular in Ecuador, is now gaining in popularity in the U.S. as a naturally caffeinated ingredient. But what exactly is guayusa, and how do you use it? Experts share what you need to know about this tropical ingredient and whether or not it’s a healthy swap for your daily cup o’ joe. Gorin says that Indigenous families in Ecuador would often wake up as early as 3 a.m. to sit around a fire and drink guayusa tea from gourds until the sunrise. As for the taste? If you’ve ever tried yerba mate, it’s a similar flavor but significantly less bitter. It can even offer a slightly fruity taste profile. The most-researched benefit of guayusa, however, is its rich antioxidant levels. Studies indicate the plant is high in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activity. One research review also found that guayusa, among other benefits, may be rich in polyphenols, which are powerful brain-protective antioxidants. But scientists do believe more research is necessary to confirm if guayusa can have significant health impacts. In short: There’s a lot more to learn about the benefits of incorporating guayusa into your diet. Gorin adds that pregnant and nursing mothers should limit their caffeine intake, too. It’s easy to brew your own guayusa tea at home, and, thanks to its high antioxidant levels, it may even help reduce your risk for some diseases. Overall, the research on guayusa has just begun. There’s so much more to learn about this energy-boosting tea.
