guayusa

[ gwahy-yoo-suh, wahy- ]

noun

1. a tree, Ilex guayusa , native to the rainforest in the upper Amazon river basin.
2. the leaves of this tree, containing caffeine, theobromine, theophylline, and other compounds, prepared as a tea and used as a stimulant.

Word History and Origins

Origin of guayusa¹

First recorded in 1850–55; from Spanish, likely from a Jívaro language

Example Sentences

“My ancestors are guayusa,” posits Frederico, with a more mystical approach to the genesis theory.

From The Daily Beast

Every morning Frederico takes the dried leaves of the precious guayusa tree and steeps them in a large dark pot.

From The Daily Beast

They boil the leaves of the guayusa tree in the gurgling centerpiece, and gently sip its tea-like drink.

From The Daily Beast

Whether or not guayusa is a product of selective breeding, the Kichwa have learned to harness its power.

From The Daily Beast

Grown in the jungle by the indigenous Kichwa, guayusa (gwhy-you-sa) is a sacred leaf used in ceremonial rituals.

From The Daily Beast

Guayusa, or "Napo tea," is another and celebrated production of Archidona.

From Project Gutenberg

They offered us, on entering their huts, cups of the guayusa tea.

From Project Gutenberg