philip bettenford, a 17th century explorer who led an expedition through the upper amazons, wrote that he witnessed maués indians drinking a beverage made from a small fruit - from the time of its discovery the guaraná has been made into syrups, powders and soft drinks. given its high caffeine content, it is mainly marketed as a stimulant. 

one of the reasons that the plant has been so popular for consumption, is the high level of caffeine contained within the guaraná seeds - in fact, the seeds contain four to eight percent caffeine, compared to one to two point five percent in coffee beans, which has given the plant its reputation as a stimulant, known for increasing mental awareness, fighting fatigue, and increasing stamina and physical endurance.