Guayusa from the Ecuadorian Amazon

These chilly November mornings are a reminder that the holiday season is here. For me this time of year is exciting because it is an opportunity for friends and families to get together, to relax, enjoy each others’ company, and tell stories about the past year.

The Kichwa people of the Ecuadorian Amazon don’t wait for the last two months of the year to celebrate: Every morning at dawn, they gather to share stories, dreams, music, and myths. The village elders pass on their knowledge to the youth, teaching them hunting techniques, social values, and what it means to be ‘runa’, or ‘fully living human beings.’ During all of this wonderful exchange they drink gourds full of guayusa until the sun rises.

Guayusa is similar to mate (the caffeinated plant from Argentina), however in addition to caffeine is also has theobromine (the stimulant in chocolate) and L-theanine which is in green tea and reduces both physical and mental stress. On top of all that, its anti-oxidant levels are through the roof. Read more about it on our Guayusa page.

Several Kichwa myths recount how guayusa was the first plant that taught people how to conquer fears and have poise and presence through difficulty. If only we were open on Mondays so you could have some before you go Halloween trick-or-treating!