The clean energy behind our functional pre-workout comes from a synergistic blend of ingredients, but one of the stars of the show is an extract from the leaves of the guayusa plant, which grows in the upper Amazon. Guayusa is a caffeinated tea species that's related to yerba mate, but has higher levels of naturally occurring antioxidants and caffeine. 

This guayusa is sourced and farmed by indigenous farmers in Ecuador, using a completely sustainable supply chain. The guayusa is grown in ancient forest gardens called "chakras" that use similar growing techniques to agroforestry, regenerative agriculture, and permaculture. Chakra gardens mimic the natural composition of the forest, integrating up to 150 plant species per chakra, including trees, crops, and medicinal plants. Chakra gardening essentially means “to garden with intention” and it helps maintain soil health and biodiversity of the soil. It also ensures the guayusa as certified organic and Non-GMO Project Verified. 

It then goes through a patented extraction process to enhance the plant's naturally occurring compounds like chlorogenic acid and catechins. These are bioactive polyphenol compounds that are some of the most powerful antioxidants on the planet. These specific compounds are known to be anti-cancer, protect against DNA damage, protect against heart disease, activate the immune system, regulate blood pressure, and improve the metabolism. The guayusa in the KONO functional pre-workout is standardized to 30% chlorogenic acid to ensure maximum antioxidant activity! 

On top of all the other health benefits, the patented form of guayusa, AmaTea Max, has also been proven as a nootropic ingredient for the effects on brain power! Some studies suggest that it can produce a bright and focused energy without the unwanted side effects traditionally associated with caffeine, such as jitters. It has even been found that gamers who took AmaTea Max showed improvements in reaction time, cognitive performance, and reduced mental fatigue.