Guayusa Caffeine: How Much Caffeine Is in Guayusa Tea?

Yes — Guayusa naturally contains caffeine. It is one of the reasons this Amazonian leaf has become popular with people looking for an alternative morning drink to coffee or yerba mate.

How much caffeine is in Guayusa?

There isn't one universal caffeine number for every cup of Guayusa. The amount can vary with the leaf, serving size, water temperature, steeping time and preparation method. That makes fixed caffeine claims for all Guayusa tea misleading.

The simplest way to think about it is that Guayusa is a naturally caffeinated beverage. If you are sensitive to caffeine, begin with a smaller serving and see how your body responds.

What affects caffeine in your cup?

Using more leaf, hotter water or changing the steep time can affect the strength of the finished drink. Different batches of a natural agricultural product can also vary.

For practical serving and steeping guidance, see How to Brew Guayusa Tea.

Guayusa vs coffee

Both drinks contain caffeine, but they come from very different plants and have distinct flavours and traditions. Coffee is brewed from roasted seeds, while Guayusa is an infusion of leaves from Ilex guayusa. Many people describe Guayusa as smooth and less bitter, but individual responses to caffeine vary.

For a deeper comparison, read Guayusa vs Coffee.

Guayusa vs Yerba Mate

Guayusa and Yerba Mate are botanical relatives in the Ilex genus and both naturally contain caffeine. Their flavour, growing regions and cultural traditions differ. Read our Guayusa vs Yerba Mate guide.

Is Guayusa Safe?

Guayusa contains caffeine, so individual sensitivity matters. If you are sensitive to caffeine or want guidance around sleep, jitters or pregnancy, see our Guayusa side effects & safety guide.

What does research say?

For a more detailed look at caffeine, plant compounds and the limits of current evidence, read Guayusa Tea Benefits: What the Research Really Says.

Sources & further reading

• Clinical and Translational Science: human crossover study comparing caffeine from Guayusa extract with other caffeine sources
• UK novel-food dossier: compositional and caffeine data for Guayusa preparations

Try Guayusa

Upina sources Organic, Fairtrade loose-leaf Guayusa from Ecuador and ships from British Columbia. Shop Upina Guayusa →

United States: our 5 Pound size includes free shipping to the USA. Read our U.S. buying guide →