Guayusa (Ilex Guayusa) – Whole Leaves from Ecuador

Shade-dried leaves from Kichwa growers

These whole guayusa leaves are sourced directly from Kichwa growers in Ecuador, also known as Quichua. Certified organic and sustainably harvested, they are shade-dried to retain their natural green colour and supplied with the leaf shape intact.

Guayusa makes a smooth, earthy infusion with a subtle sweetness. Its whole leaves can be prepared in a pot and strained before serving, with room for the leaves to open in the water.

The guayusa tradition

In Amazonian Kichwa households, guayusa has traditionally been prepared before dawn and shared around the morning fire. Family members talk about the day ahead, listen to elders and recount dreams from the night before. Ethnographic accounts describe these gatherings as a place for both everyday conversation and the passing on of knowledge.

The plant holds a sacred place in these traditions. Its cultural importance is expressed through cultivation, hospitality and the sharing of the drink, as well as through dream interpretation. Our direct sourcing connects these leaves with the Kichwa growers who maintain that relationship with guayusa, supporting the communities involved in their production.

Caffeine and leaf chemistry

Ilex guayusa belongs to the holly family. Its leaves naturally contain caffeine, alongside theobromine and plant polyphenols such as chlorogenic acids. These compounds help explain the scientific interest in a leaf long valued as a stimulating morning drink.

Preparing whole guayusa leaves

Add the leaves to a pot of hot water, steep for 5–10 minutes and strain. The smooth, lightly sweet infusion can be served plain or combined with herbs and spices according to taste.

Guayusa contains caffeine, so it is best enjoyed earlier in the day when caffeine affects sleep.

For a smaller leaf cut, explore our Guayusa tea from Ecuador. Other origins and preparations are gathered in the Guayusa collection.

Selected references

• Espinosa Andrade & Vásquez-Castillo (2026). Guayusa in Amazonian Kichwa communities.
• Noriega et al. (2025). Guayusa: history, traditional uses, chemistry and biological activity.
• European Food Safety Authority. Caffeine.

Information on traditional, cultural and reported uses is provided for educational and ethnobotanical purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.