Mood: Awake, Clear, Steady
Best For: Morning focus, a gentle coffee alternative, long evenings
Latin name: Ilex guayusa
Also known as: Wayusa, aguayusa, waisa, wayus, wais
Origin: Ecuador
Indigenous hunters in Ecuador call it the Night Watchman.
Guayusa Tea from the Ecuadorian Amazon
Ilex guayusa is one of only three known caffeinated holly trees, a relative of Yerba Mate. Its leaves are dried and brewed like tea for their stimulating effect. Hunters drink it to sharpen their instincts and to stay alert and awake through the night, which is where the name Night Watchman comes from.
- Caffeine and theobromine – guayusa contains the same mood-lifting theobromine as cacao, so its energy is clear and calm rather than jittery.
- Mental clarity and steady energy – traditionally used to keep the mind sharp and reduce fatigue.
- Antioxidants, vitamins and amino acids – the leaves are known as a rich natural source of them.
How to Prepare Guayusa
Steep one to two teaspoons in hot water for 5 to 7 minutes. Guayusa is smooth and not bitter, even when steeped longer. Drink it in place of coffee, or alongside it.
belivetar –
Mnogo bolja opcija od kafe, od kako pijem ovaj čaj mnogo sam produktivnija i nemam padove energije…