Ilex Guayusa

Ilex guayusa

Evidence: CFamily: Aquifoliaceae

Pregnancy:CautionNursing:CautionChildren:Caution

Ecuadorian Amazonian holly relative cultivated by Kichwa peoples for millennia as dawn ritual tea. Contains caffeine (highest of any holly), theobromine, and L-theanine. Provides alert calm like matcha. For energy, focus, and digestive health. Sustainable agroforestry crop.

Herb Card

Safety Quick Reference

Pregnancypossibly unsafe

Breastfeedingpossibly unsafe

Pediatriccaution

Contraindications: Caffeine sensitivity. Anxiety disorders. Insomnia.

Interactions: Stimulants, MAOIs, adenosine (caffeine interactions).

Drug & Medication Interactions

If you take any medications, review these interactions carefully.

Known Interactions

Stimulants, MAOIs, adenosine (caffeine interactions).

Contraindications

Caffeine sensitivity. Anxiety disorders. Insomnia.

Side Effects

Caffeine effects: insomnia, jitteriness, GI upset. Smoother than coffee.

How to Prepare Ilex Guayusa

Herbal Tea (Infusion)Easy · 10-15 minutes

Equipment

Kettle or pot, Mug or teapot, Strainer or tea infuser, Measuring spoon

Instructions

1Bring fresh water to a rolling boil (200-212°F / 93-100°C).
2Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb (or 1 tablespoon fresh) per 8 oz cup into your strainer or infuser.
3Pour hot water over the herbs and cover to prevent volatile oils from escaping.
4Steep for 10-15 minutes for medicinal strength (5 minutes for a lighter, everyday tea).
5Remove the strainer/herbs. Add honey, lemon, or other herbs to taste if desired.
6Drink 1-3 cups daily, or as directed by a qualified herbalist.

Tips

• Covering while steeping is important — it traps beneficial volatile compounds.
• Leaves and flowers generally need 10-15 minutes; roots and bark need a decoction instead.
• Make larger batches and refrigerate for up to 48 hours.

Start with a small amount to check for any sensitivity. Not all herbs are suitable for tea preparation — some require alcohol extraction (tincture) for full potency.

Drink fresh or refrigerate for up to 48 hours. Dried herbs should be stored in airtight containers away from light.

Standardized ExtractEasy (purchasing) · N/A — purchase pre-made

Equipment

Purchase from reputable supplement company

Instructions

1Standardized extracts are professionally manufactured to contain a guaranteed amount of active compounds.
2Follow the dosing instructions on the product label.
3Take with food unless otherwise directed.
4Choose extracts from companies that provide third-party testing (USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab verified).
5Common standardizations: Milk Thistle (80% silymarin), Ginkgo (24% flavone glycosides), Turmeric (95% curcuminoids).

Tips

• Standardized extracts provide consistent dosing — important for herbs where potency varies.
They are stronger than whole-herb preparations and may have different effects.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The information on Healix Natural Solutions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a licensed healthcare provider.

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• Whole-herb preparations may contain beneficial synergistic compounds lost in extraction.

Standardized extracts are concentrated — do not exceed recommended doses. They may interact differently with medications than whole-herb preparations. Consult a healthcare provider if taking medications.

Follow manufacturer storage instructions. Typically store cool, dry, and away from light.