Guarana
Research reviewed: Up until 03/2026
Guarana (Paullinia cupana) is a dietary supplement with 2 published peer-reviewed studies involving 3,200 participants, researched for Energy & Cognitive Function.
Evidence at a Glance
Strength is scored by study design, sample size, study type, and outcomes
Energy & Cognitive Function
StrongResearch Visualised
Visual breakdown of the clinical data.
Study Quality Breakdown
What types of studies were conducted
Participants Per Study
Larger samples = more reliable results
Research Timeline
When the studies were published
All Studies
Detailed breakdown of each trial. Click to expand.
Energy & Cognitive Function
To evaluate guarana vs caffeine effects on cognitive performance and mood.
Study Type
Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover
Purpose
To evaluate guarana vs caffeine effects on cognitive performance and mood.
Dose
Guarana 37.5mg (caffeine-matched), 75mg, 150mg, 300mg
Participants
28 healthy young adults
Duration
Single dose crossover
Results
Guarana at 75mg produced significant improvements in attention, memory, and speed without jitteriness. Low doses (37.5mg) also enhanced cognitive performance. Effects outlasted equivalent caffeine alone.
How They Measured It
Computerised cognitive battery (CDR), mood VAS, attention, working memory
To assess guarana on fatigue and quality of life in cancer patients.
Study Type
Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled
Purpose
To assess guarana on fatigue and quality of life in cancer patients.
Dose
Guarana 50mg twice daily
Participants
75 breast cancer patients on chemotherapy
Duration
21 days
Results
Guarana significantly reduced chemotherapy-induced fatigue and improved quality of life scores. Well tolerated. Better than methylphenidate for fatigue in this population.
How They Measured It
Fatigue scale, quality of life questionnaire, cognitive assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Guarana research
There are currently 55 peer-reviewed studies on Guarana (Paullinia cupana), involving 3,200 total participants. Research covers Energy & alertness, Cognitive function, Weight management and 1 more areas. The overall evidence strength is rated as Strong.
The evidence is currently rated as "Strong Evidence". This rating is based on study design quality (randomisation, blinding, placebo controls), sample sizes, study types (2 human studies), and reported outcomes.
Guarana has been researched for: Energy & alertness, Cognitive function, Weight management, Exercise performance. Each area has its own body of evidence which you can explore in the study breakdowns above.
Yes, 2 out of 55 studies are human trials. Human trials carry more weight in our evidence scoring system.
