Archidona is a colonial city, founded in 1560, located north of Tena in the Napo province. Archidona functions as a hub for trade and social activities for the small Quichua communities in the surrounding areas.
Situated in the central-north part of the Amazon region on a vast plain, flanked by the eastern mountain range of the Andes, on the left bank of the Misahuallí River, and at an altitude of 577 meters above sea level, with a humid tropical climate averaging 24°C, the Napo region is home to the most prized strain of Guayusa used to produce the “Nightwatch” tea.
For the Amazon Quichua tribe, Guayusa is a sacred leaf. At dawn, they prepare infusions to drink during traditional family rituals and to help focus and interpret dreams. It provides them with energy to start the day anew. It is very similar to our morning rituals when we drink coffee.
A significant portion of humanity uses a plant-based beverage rich in xanthines to energize themselves daily. Coffee, tea, Guayusa, cocoa, guaraná, and mate are the most commonly used. It is the molecular composition of “Ilex guayusa” that makes it the most interesting source in our humble opinion.
The plant “Ilex guayusa” is a tall, aromatic, branched plant with leaves reaching 15 cm in length. These leaves have a high concentration of caffeine and other xanthines, are rich in beneficial compounds, antioxidants, and phenolics, and boast a lush dark green color. From the leaves of this plant, cultivated since Inca civilizations, locals prepare the infusion they drink every morning as part of a family ritual before starting their agricultural, fishing, and community work.
