Description

Ilex Guayusa Strings: A Delectable and Stimulating Tea

Indulge in the rich flavor and energizing effects of Ilex Guayusa Strings sourced from local Kichwa farmers of the Rio Napo province of Ecuador. Our strings consist of 10 leaves bundled together, with each string weighing between 400 to 450 grams and measuring 75 to 80 cm long. Discover the secrets of this ancient tea and experience its diverse cultural and medicinal significance.

Features of Ilex Guayusa Strings:

• Locally sourced from Kichwa farmers in Ecuador
• Bundles of 10 leaves per string, each weighing between 400 to 450 grams
• Measures 75 to 80 cm long
• Rich flavor profile due to fermentation process
• Valued for its antioxidant and caffeine content

Ceremonial Use

Experience the sacredness of Ilex Guayusa Strings in a traditional Ayahuasca ceremony. Before the ceremony begins, participants are given a string to rub themselves ‘clean’ from head to toe. The shaman then collects all the strings and throws them into the fire. The next morning, the shaman burns the remaining pieces of Guayusa to ensure their complete destruction.

Native Use

Discover the intimate family tradition of “guayusa upina,” where families in Ecuador, Peru and Colombia brew the leaves of I. guayusa as a tea before their daily chores. This moment of connection is where dreams, myths and stories are shared among family members. The tea’s antioxidant and caffeine content provides a stimulating effect without the strong kick of coffee, allowing for clear focus and concentration.

Habitat

The Ilex Guayusa tree is native to Ecuador, northeastern Peru and southwestern Colombia, growing between elevations of 200 to 2000 meters. This evergreen tree produces delicate white flowers that eventually lead to red spherical fruit. The leaves of the tree are ovate, elliptic, oblong, or lanceolate and can grow up to 15 meters tall.

Scientific Information

Chemically speaking, Ilex Guayusa contains xanthines such as caffeine, theobromine (found in cacao beans), Theophylline (found in green tea), glutamic acid, feluric acid and chlorogenic acid. It also contains 15 essential amino acids and has almost twice as many antioxidants as regular green tea. Scientific studies have found that Ilex Guayusa can be used to treat liver pains, malaria, syphilis, stomachaches and to regulate menstruation.

Experience the rich and diverse culture and history of Ilex Guayusa Strings. Satisfy your cravings and give your body a boost with this delectable and stimulating tea. Purchase your own bundle of strings from the Wisdom of Plants Institute and embark on a journey of discovery.