Guayusa (free shipping)

Description

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Ilex guayusa is a species of tree of the holly genus, native to the Amazon Rainforest. One of three known caffeinated holly trees (related to yerba mate), the leaves of the guayusa tree are dried and brewed like a tea for their stimulative effects. The earliest evidence of human usage is a 1,500 year old bundle of guayusa leaves found in a medicine man’s tomb in the Bolivian Andes, far beyond the natural range of the plant.

The leaves contain a unique balance of caffeine (1.75-3.5%), theobromine, as well as L-theanine, antioxidants, vitamins and amino acids. Guayusa is known for it’s smooth taste (due to lack of tannins) and energizing effect without the jitteriness associated with other caffeinated drinks. Makes a great substitute for coffee or tea!