Guayusa (pronounced gwhy-you-suh) is a small holly tree that grows primarily in Ecuador and is finally coming on the world stage for consumption. Just as many people have heard about Yerba Mate (another Amazonian plant used for herbal teas/infusions) and its stimulating properties, so now guayusa is being enjoyed and shared for its pleasant taste and ability to give energy and focus.
Guayusa has a similar caffeine content to that of coffee and yet because it contains other polyphenols such as theobromine (found in dark chocolate), theophylline (in the caffeine family), and the amino acid L-theanine-the unique combination of these polyphenols helps guayusa pick you up without letting you down (you know, giving you the jitters!). The amino acid l-theanine helps to promote relaxation and calms stress without promoting sleep or tiredness. In addition, guayusa contains 1 1/2 to 2 times the amount of antioxidants found in green tea.
Even better yet, because guayusa doesn’t contain tannins, it lacks the bitter taste that is often associated with a poorly brewed cup of tea or Yerba mate. The taste is smooth and slightly sweet. So if you are a looking for a great replacement for coffee as a pick-me-up that doesn’t contain the mycotoxins of coffee—check out guayusa for your daily energy, mental focus, antioxidant boost. Our friends at The Jam Coffeehouse have organic guayusa as part of their Happy Tea blend and they would be glad to serve you. Also, you can buy guayusa tea (loose leaf and in tea bags) online!