guarana plant
Paullinia cupana
Paullinia cupana, commonly known as guarana, is a traditional Amazonian plant used in various cultural practices. Traditionally, it has not been extensively documented for specific medicinal uses; however, its seeds and fruits are often consumed for their stimulant properties. Scientific evidence suggests that guarana may have some potential benefits, such as improving endurance during physical tests, but the effects on other performance metrics remain inconclusive. Withania somnifera (ashwagandha), a different plant, has shown promise in enhancing quality of life and reducing side effects in breast cancer patients, though further research is needed to validate these findings. No significant safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded for guarana, making it generally considered safe when used appropriately.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- This study found that 21 guarana genotypes from southern Bahia showed variability in fruit and seed traits, suggesting potential for breeding programs.
- Guarana improved the distance covered in the YYIR1 test but had no significant effects on countermovement jump, sprints, or agility.
- The study found that Withania somnifera was effective in enhancing quality of life and reducing side effects in breast cancer patients, though further validation is needed.
- Phytotherapy provided a modest improvement in cancer-related fatigue, though evidence was limited by methodological weaknesses and heterogeneity.
Frequently asked questions
What is guarana plant?
guarana plant (Paullinia cupana) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about guarana plant?
4 sourced findings are recorded for guarana plant; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: This study found that 21 guarana genotypes from southern Bahia showed variability in fruit and seed traits, suggesting potential for breeding programs.
How strong is the evidence for guarana plant?
The strongest finding for guarana plant carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is guarana plant safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for guarana plant in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does guarana plant interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for guarana plant in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of guarana plant?
guarana plant is also known as: Гуарана, plante de guarana.
Is guarana plant a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Effects of Acute Ingestion of Guarana (Paullinia Cupana) on Soccer Player Performance: A Randomized, Cross-over, Placebo-Controlled Study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Systematic review and network meta-analysis of the effects of plant active substance on quality of life in breast cancer patients. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Efficacy of Phytotherapy for Cancer-Related Fatigue: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Genetic variability among guarana (Paullinia cupana var. sorbilis (Mart.) Ducke) provenances to support breeding strategies. literature abstract metadata