This tea contains caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine which provide an energizing effect without jitters or crashes. The infusion has higher antioxidant levels than green tea.
Originally drunk by the Indigenous Guaraní people of Paraguay who saw it as a gift from the gods, drinking the infusion is now a popular cultural tradition across many South American countries. Sharing the drink with others is a sign of friendship and respect. The etiquette around drinking circles has been passed down over generations.
Beyond being a beloved social custom, the infusion has many health benefits. It can reduce fatigue, boost concentration and digestion, and has high levels of antioxidants. The caffeine provides sustained energy without crashes. The drink has a long history intertwined with the culture of South America.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include insomnia, headaches, increased cancer risk. Caffeine content also makes the infusion unsuitable for pregnant women.
Recent studies associate drinking it with increased mouth, esophagus, bladder, kidney and lung cancer risk. This is due to cancer-causing chemicals called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in the infusion. So it has health risks when consumed excessively over long periods.
The common way of drinking the infusion is to slowly sip it continuously for a few hours. More leaves or water can be added as needed. Each steep releases more nutrients and flavor. It is often drunk socially while relaxing outdoors. Sharing one gourd creates bonds between people gathered.
Overall the tea has some risks if drunk excessively over long periods. Those with anxiety, pregnant women and heavy drinkers should be cautious with intake. But for most people the antioxidant health benefits outweigh the risks when consumed in moderation.
The infusion contains much more caffeine than green tea – 80mg versus 45mg per cup. However, it provides smooth, sustained energy without an energy crash later. The infusion has a more intense, bitter taste than green tea’s delicate, earthy flavor.
While green tea is important culturally in Asia, the drink plays a vital role in South American countries. Studies show the infusion contains more antioxidants and nutrients than green tea, making it superior for health.
The infusion provides strong antioxidant benefits to fight oxidative stress. Studies conclude it has the highest antioxidant levels among 25 drinks, including green tea.
Unlike green tea’s light, arid taste and short 1-2 minute steep time, the beverage features an earthy, bitter flavor and 5-minute steep. It provides more potent energy benefits without subsequent fatigue.
Like coffee and tea, the infusion stimulates the nervous system and is consumed as an energy booster. It provides a balanced, clean energy boost compared to other stimulants like coffee, tea, cocoa and guarana. It delivers a gentle, steady rise in energy which gives a feeling of stimulation without the jitters caused by coffee.
Its caffeine content provides mild stimulant effects like increased alertness, concentration, reduced fatigue and enhanced physical performance.
The infusion is made from the leaves of a holly plant native to South America. Leaves grown in rainforest shade have the best flavor and nutrients. It contains about 80mg of caffeine per cup – less than coffee but more than most teas.
The drink gives a different energy than coffee, enhancing focus and physical performance. Its prolonged, multifaceted energy is more appealing than coffee’s quick boost. You can drink the infusion later in the day without it affecting sleep.