Guarana is a traditional herbal supplement made from the guarana plant, a bushy plant that grows in the Brazilian rainforest. Many health supplements are available that contain guarana, often mixed with other herbal supplements, and guarana is also often added to energy drinks. Guarana has many reported effects on the body, including changes in heart rate. As with any health supplement, consult your doctor before taking guarana.
Stimulants
Gaurana contains several central nervous system stimulants, including caffeine, theobromine and theophylline. Central nervous stimulants such as these have many effects on the body, including raising heart rate, widening airways and constricting blood vessels, explains Neuroscience for Kids. Due to its high levels of caffeine and other stimulants, gaurana can be expected to raise heart rates.
Heart Arrhythmias
Guarana has been reported to cause alterations in heart rhythms, known as heart arrhythmias, explains "A Nurse's Guide to Herbal Remedies." Tachycardia, or increased heart rate, as well as irregular heart beat or heart palpitations, have been reported as side effects of guarana. Due to these effects on the heart, people with heart disease should use caution with guarana.
Dose
Small to moderate amounts of guarana may not cause a noticeable effect on heart rate. Typically, caffeine only causes major effects on heart rate when consumed in high doses, such as more than 500 to 600 mg in a single day, explains the MayoClinic.com. Many guarana supplements provide approximately 50 mg of caffeine per serving, according to the New York Langone Medical System. However, different people have different sensitivities to caffeine and other stimulants, and may notice an effect at lower doses.
Additional Side Effects
As a central nervous system stimulant, guarana may cause additional side effects, including anxiety, irritability, restlessness and nervousness. Nausea, heartburn, gastritis and vomiting may also occur. Difficulty sleeping, or insomnia, is also a common side effect. Guarana can cause interactions with other medications containing stimulants, such as decongestants and dextroamphetamine.
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