Guarana (Paullinia cupana) is a woody climbing shrub in the Sapindaceae family native to the Amazon basin. It produces distinctive red fruits that split open to reveal dark seeds with pale coverings, and the seeds are the part most commonly used in traditional and commercial preparations.
In Amazonian traditions, guarana seeds were dried, roasted, and ground for use in stimulating drinks and tonics. Because the seeds naturally contain caffeine, guarana is usually discussed in the context of energizing beverages and concentrated extracts rather than soothing teas.
