Khat vs Guarana Seed

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Khat

Catha edulis

Nootropic

Paullinia cupana

Nootropic

Khat

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Guarana Seed

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

An East African and Arabian shrub whose leaves contain a stimulant alkaloid, chewed socially across the Horn of Africa and Yemen.

Amazonian stimulant seed with highest caffeine content of any plant; Guarani people use for energy, mental clarity, and as medicine.

Active Compounds

Cathinone, Cathine, Norephedrine, Tannins

caffeine, theobromine, theophylline, tannins, saponins

Traditional Uses

Stimulant, Appetite suppressant, Social ritual, Fatigue relief

Guarani energy tonic, Diarrhea remedy, Mental clarity, Athletic performance

Modern Uses

CNS stimulant (amphetamine-like), Appetite suppression, Controlled substance in many countries

Stimulant, Weight management, Athletic performance, Cognitive enhancement

Adult Dosage

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE in many countries. Traditional: chew fresh leaves.

40-300mg caffeine equivalent daily

Contraindications

Heart disease, Hypertension, Psychiatric conditions, Pregnancy, Liver disease

Anxiety disorders, Insomnia, Hypertension, Heart conditions, Pregnancy caution

Side Effects

Insomnia, Anorexia, Constipation, Psychosis, Dependency, Oral cancer risk

Insomnia, Tachycardia, Anxiety, GI upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E