Among the main actions of Guarana (Paullinia cupana H.B.K. ) are its tonic-stimulant and slimming properties. It contains 3 xanthic bases: Caffeine, in greater proportion and the most potent (3-5% w/w), Theobromine (0.02-0.03% w/w) and Theophylline (0.25% w/w), which produce a CNS stimulus, improving alertness and other intellectual activities.

Also catechic tannins (8-12% w/w), catecutanic acid, saponosides and mucilages.

It helps improve concentration, resistance to fatigue and generates a feeling of well-being.
It is also antiplatelet aggregant, astringent and has traditionally been used as a cardiotonic, hypotensive, febrifuge, digestive and aphrodisiac.
It is indicated in treatments for asthenia, diarrhea, enterocolitis, prevention of arteriosclerosis and thromboembolisms, also for headaches.
It is used as an adjuvant in overweight treatments for its anorexigenic effect.