We started this project as a pure way to help the rain forest. Our mission is to provide sustainable income to the indigenous families and communities in the jungle which is in accordance with a preservation of the forest’s biodiversity. The sustainable income is essential for the basic function of the families and communities in the current social system in Ecuador. Installation of electricity, taxes, work certificates and mandatory school attendance for families with an average of 5-8 children impose many hardships.

What is Wayusa?

Wayusa is an energizing herbal infusion with naturally occurring caffeine, earthy aroma and enjoyable honey tones at its finish. It is prepared by indigenous people from the leaves of a sacred tree in the equatorial rain forests of Ecuadorian Amazon jungle. Use and cultivation of Wayusa has been embedded in the Amazonian culture for over 2000 years. Is has many names across the Amazon: Wayusa, Guayusa (guayusa), Huayusa (uayusa), Waisa (waysa) or Weisa (weysa).

Wayusa is appreciated for its balanced ratio of caffeine, antioxidants, vitamins, aminoacids and its activating effect resembling coffee and its further relative yerba mate. Contrary to coffee, Wayusa releases caffeine consecutively, therefor delivering the energy gently without peak hit and subsequent drop. The resulting effect is a calm focus and energy for mental and physical work that lasts several hours, depending on the intensity of work. Indigenous people believe that Wayusa fortifies their immunity and protects them from negative energies, bugs and snakes in the jungle.

Wayusa is a traditional fruticose tree owned by each family that is a part of their daily lives. Women plant Wayusa in “chakras”, permaculture farms in the jungle combining a variety of crops like coffee, cacao, banana, yucca, corn, fruits and herbs. The tree leaves can be used to prepare tea in 3 to 4 years. The tree can live up to 100 years. The older the tree, the more quality infusions and spirit in it.