Paullinia cupana, Paullinia subrotunda.
Botanical name:
Paullinia cupana H. B. & K. Sapindaceae.
Brazil. The seeds are mingled with cassava and water and allowed to ferment, forming the favorite drink of the Orinoco Indians. The pounded seeds form guarana bread. This bread is made by the Indians and is highly esteemed in Brazil. About 16000 pounds are exported from Santarem. The bread is grated into sugar and water and forms a diet drink. Its active principle is a substance called guaranine, which is identical in composition with the thein of tea.
Paullinia subrotunda Pers.
Royle says this plant has an edible aril. Henfrey says the seeds are eaten.
Sturtevant's Edible Plants of the World, 1919, was edited by U. P. Hedrick.
