Small, bright red fruit that splits open when ripe, revealing its large black seed partially encased with a thin white pulp. At this stage, the fruit resembles an eye. Seeds are extracted and roasted, then used as a stimulant or for a variety of other purposes. A creeping, climbing vine, sometimes reaching large heights as it scales up taller trees. Leaves contain five leaflets. The tree bears small, white male and female flowers on the same tree. Guarana' is manly used as an ingredient in soft drinks and energy drinks. It is also used as a dietary supplement to promote weight loss. In addition it may be an ingredient in other foods.
