Guarana VS Caffeine from coffee: Is there a difference?

Guarana contains more caffeine than coffee, but both substances have health benefits. Consuming too much caffeine from any source can cause unwanted side effects.

Guarana and coffee contain different plant chemicals but share caffeine in common. Caffeine is a stimulant, and having too much of it can cause side effects such as anxiety and palpitations.

This article discusses whether the effects of consuming caffeine are different depending on whether it comes from guarana or coffee.

Which contains more caffeine?

On average, guarana contains more caffeine than coffee, which can vary depending on the preparation.

Research from 2023 states that guarana seeds contain 2–8% caffeine, while coffee beans contain 1–3% caffeine.

In addition, a 2023 review of eight placebo-controlled studies states that pure guarana can contain up to 5.3% caffeine, while espresso coffee contains about 0.21% caffeine.

Overview of guarana

Guarana comes from Paullinia cupana seeds and is native to the Amazon basin.

Guarana producers make guarana by shelling, washing, drying, or roasting the seeds. They then grind the seeds into a powder.

How to add guarana to the diet

People can consume guarana:

as a food flavoring
as tea
in energy drinks
in dietary supplements

They can buy guarana in tablet or capsule form, as liquid, or as a multi-ingredient supplement, especially in weight loss products.

Overview of coffee

Evidence of coffee use dates back to the 15th century when people used it within the Sufi monasteries of Yemen. However, research suggests that it originally came from Ethiopia.

Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora are the main plants that provide coffee for human consumption.

Making coffee is complex. It involves processing the coffee cherries to yield green coffee beans, which producers then dry and roast.

Is guarana a healthier alternative to coffee?

No evidence indicates that guarana is healthier than coffee or vice versa. Research suggests that both substances can have beneficial effects on human health.

Guarana contains flavonoids and proanthocyanidins. These plant compounds could have positive health impacts, such as reducing inflammation and lowering cholesterol.

People may respond to guarana and coffee in different ways. Unless a substance causes unwanted side effects, consuming either in moderation can be part of a nutritious diet.

Comparing the effects of guarana and caffeine

The table below lists some of the possible effects of guarana and coffee.

Possible effects of guarana	Possible effects of coffee
stimulant	improves alertness
mild diuretic	increases attention
increase wakefulness	increases performance in short-term, high intensity and endurance exercise
reduces hunger and thirst	may lower cancer risk
treats headaches	may lower the risk of high blood pressure, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation
treats heavy menstrual bleeding	may lower type 2 diabetes risk
treats digestive disorders	may lower liver disease risk
boosts energy and endurance
supports weight loss
increases concentration and memory

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that 400 milligrams (mg) or 4–5 cups of coffee per dayTrusted Source will not likely cause negative side effects. However, there is wide variation in people’s sensitivity to coffee.

Daily doses of caffeine from guarana can range from 200–1,000 mg. If a person uses more than one product containing guarana or other sources of caffeine, they may develop side effects or caffeine toxicity.