Ilex guayusa loes (Aquifoliaceae): Amazon and andean native plant

Ilex guayusa Loes (Aquifoliaceae) is native to the Andean Amazon (Colombia, Ecuador, and Perù) commonly known as guayusa. From ancestral times up to today Guayusa has been employed by indigenous and urban communities as a herbal infusion, for the treatment of diabetes, infertility, or venereal diseases. As an antiinflammatory, diuretic or energizing-agent. In addition, it can be used as a regulator of the menstrual cycle and during the lactation period. Other benefits include for weight loss, and as a mouth wash, among others. This study encompasses Ilex guayusa taxonomy, etnobotany, geographical distribution and habitat (elevation), ecology, phytochemistry, biological activity, and toxicity. Few investigations have been devoted to its phytochemical and pharmacological properties, thus other studies could suggest new medicinal effects for future alternative medicinal development.