The South American herb is an adaptogen, providing energy and mental clarity.
But can too much be harmful? The recommended daily intake is 1-2 liters, allowing health benefits without excess. South Americans safely drink 1–4 liters daily. In U.S., Canada and Europe, avid drinkers consume 1–2 liters. Consuming the infusion moderately provides antioxidants, immunity boosting, improved digestion and energy. However, excessive intake increases cancer and digestion risks.
The cancer risk is debated. No study conclusively shows it causes cancer. Research indicates very high temperature drinks over long periods may increase esophageal cancer likelihood.
The mate has some caffeine. At 85 mg per cup, it’s less than coffee but more than tea. It provides an energy boost and mental focus. Those sensitive to caffeine should moderate evening consumption for good sleep.
Drinking the South American beverage in moderation, 2-3 times daily, provides benefits without overindulging.
Caffeine Content in Yerba Mate
The herb contains 1-1.5% caffeine. The caffeine content depends on the brewing method and varies between 20-180mg per cup. A cup averages 70mg, while coffee averages 120mg.
An 8-ounce serving contains about 85mg. Coffee has about 130mg per cup and green tea 50mg. While the infusion has less caffeine than coffee, it provides sustainable energy.
Regardless of preparation, it remains popular in South America. As we see how much caffeine it has, understanding the preparation and culture is important. Let’s explore what caffeine is and how much can be found in this drink. Caffeine is a stimulant affecting the nervous system, found in drinks and foods.
Experienced drinkers consume 1-4 liters per day safely. In North America and Europe, 1-2 liters per day is common. Moderation is recommended. The mate contains less caffeine than coffee but more than tea.
The caffeine content can vary based on factors like brewing method, steeping time, and type of leaves. Different leaves have varying caffeine levels.
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There are 80-85mg of caffeine per 8-ounce cup. This is much more than most teas but slightly less than coffee. It gives an energy boost and can improve brain function. As a natural plant, it contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Consuming extremely hot mate is associated with increased cancer risk.
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One cup contains about 85mg caffeine. Pregnant women can safely consume 1-2 cups per day. Research shows that fetal growth may be affected by consuming over 100mg of caffeine daily.
Shelf Life and Daily Consumption
Studies use 3 cups (330mL) a day for up to 60 days. It’s safe to drink up to 1.5 liters daily. Toxicity has not occurred from higher doses.
The shelf life is 1 to 2 years stored properly in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Check for musty/mouldy smell, discolouration or taste change. Discard if signs of spoilage.
- 85 mg caffeine per cup is less than coffee but more than tea. South Americans drink 1-4 liters daily. Avid drinkers consume at least 1-2 liters.
When taken in large amounts or long periods, it is possibly unsafe. It increases cancer risk, especially for smokers/drinkers.
Depending on storage, it lasts 1-2 years. Store in a cool, dry, dark container away from light, moisture and pantry items transferring flavors. Pay attention to taste when priming it.
- 1 kilogram lasts about 1 month with 28 servings. 500 grams lasts half a month with 14 servings. Amount varies per person but mate is inexpensive.
Health Benefits and Comparison to Matcha
It is possibly unsafe when taken in large amounts or for long periods of time. Drinking 1-2 liters daily for a long time increases the risk of some types of cancer. This risk is high for people who smoke or drink alcohol. Further researches need to determine these side effects. When you’re detoxifying, it’s essential to stay hydrated and support your liver’s natural cleansing processes. It contains caffeine and compounds that can lead to withdrawal symptoms when you stop consuming it.
The South American drink provides an energy boost similar to coffee, but with less caffeine and more nutrients. It was called “the drink of the gods” by indigenous South Americans and “the green gold of the Indios” by settlers. It may be helpful in treating attention disorders, depression, mood disorders, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Many people use it to treat ADHD instead of medication.
It is considered a drug since it contains caffeine which can be addictive and have negative side effects but it does not cause hallucinations. It helps improve mental health. It energizes and aids concentration and mental stimulation. The amount you consume daily depends on your own tolerance and preference. It is an herb like oregano, mint and parsley that is generously enjoyed without hesitation. It appears to be an adaptogen.
Drinking it regularly will improve your immune system, detoxify your body and prevent diseases. The difference between it and matcha is it is an infusion of leaves and sticks from the holly tree while matcha is a fine powder from tea plant leaves. They offer different flavors and nutrition but both provide a healthy experience in every cup.