Yerba mate basics
Yerba mate is a traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the holly tree. It has gained popularity for its energy boost, mental focus, and health benefits. It contains caffeine and nutrients. It provides an energy lift similar to coffee but milder. People choose it as an alternative to coffee to avoid caffeine crashes.
This beverage increases alertness, concentration, and productivity. It has antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals too. This makes it one of the healthiest drinks.
Its consumption in Argentina is 14 pounds per person yearly. 90% of households drink it. It’s commonly had for breakfast with juice or before sunset, hot or cold, depending on weather. Argentines increasingly drink canned or bottled mate on-the-go. Sharing it forges emotional links between people, bringing them back to their roots.
The growing popularity owes to the taste, health benefits and cultural significance. The addictive potential is less than coffee. It provides increased energy, not as intense as some coffees.
Is it OK to drink this South American drink everyday?
For centuries, its leaves have been used for an energizing caffeine-rich infused drink. It is popular in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and other Latin American countries. One reason for its popularity is its natural caffeine content. Even though its caffeine amount is lower than coffee’s, it contains alkaloids contributing to its energizing effect.
It is commonly consumed in South America all day long, from morning to evening. However, some studies suggest health risks from drinking large amounts for long periods. The risks appear higher if smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol too. More research is still needed.
Those with sleep issues should restrict consumption, especially after 6 pm when it can worsen problems. But it also has beneficial vitamins, minerals, antioxidants that may help prevent cancer. An occasional drink likely poses little risk for healthy adults. Still, people should know their personal tolerance and limit.
What makes this plant special?
It is made from the leaves of a holly tree native to the region. Sharing it is an important social tradition bringing people together and fostering community.
It has more nutrients than coffee or tea. It contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Some research shows it may help with weight loss and gut health. The caffeine gives a gentle 4-6 hour energy boost.
Wild or organic is best. Though a bit more expensive, organic is worth it for the health benefits.
Drinking very large amounts regularly may increase cancer risk. Caffeine with ephedrine can also cause heart problems. But it is not considered a drug when used moderately. It’s no more a drug than coffee or tea.
It is very versatile, served hot, cold, sweetened or plain. It’s a fixture of daily life in native countries. People drink it at all times of day. More people worldwide now enjoy its unique virtues.
Why does this drink make me high?
It has caffeine that improves mood. Theobromine also improves mood like chocolate. It was first used by indigenous people in South America. Drinking lots daily raises cancer risk. Caffeine with ephedrine causes side effects.
It and coffee both have antioxidants and stimulants. It provides smooth energy boost compared to coffee. It balances energy without jittery feeling afterwards. You can make it at home traditionally or simply with leaves and water.
It improves immune system and detoxifies the body over time. It has less teeth staining than coffee. To make it, boil water and add leaves.