The South American plant contains caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These stimulate the nervous system. The tea also has antioxidants like quercetin and rutin. It may increase cancer risk if drunk in large amounts for a long time.
The herbal drink has a diuretic effect, helping the body eliminate toxins. It also contains compounds that stimulate dopamine production.
The tea is traditionally drunk from a gourd using a metal straw. Sharing mate is a sign of friendship in South America. It provides a mild stimulation without causing jitteriness. The brew can improve mood, memory, thinking skills, headache, and fatigue. The effects are longer lasting than coffee.
Active Ingredients
The herb contains caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. The caffeine content is less than green tea. It also contains different chemicals so it is not addictive.
The drink can help with appetite, constipation, and heart health. More research on heart health is needed. Some concerns about cancer have been raised but more studies are needed.
There are few side effects. Excessive consumption may increase cancer risk.
The Guarani people first used the drink like a gift from the gods. Recently some energy drinks were introduced.
The caffeine can be addictive like coffee but the tea is considered less risky. The plants grow in subtropical forests and are aged 9-24 months before used as a drink. Argentinians drink it daily, hot or cold, and it connects people. The local farmers harvest the leaves.
Health Effects
It has antioxidants, caffeine, vitamins and minerals. It gives you energy and mental focus. It may help with weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing metabolism. It protects the heart and fights disease. It has less caffeine than coffee. Sharing the traditional gourd is a sign of friendship in South American culture.
The quality depends on the production process. High quality has better taste, aroma and health benefits.
The tea is not illegal. It gives a different feel than coffee because it has caffeine but also adaptogens that promote calm. It does not usually cause sleep issues. It has a mild diuretic effect so you may need to drink more fluids.
The drink stimulates the nervous system and is most commonly consumed as an energy booster. It provides a steady rise in energy which gives a feel of stimulation. That’s why it doesn’t give you the jitters, unlike coffee.
It helps motivate by stimulating the production of dopamine, the body’s natural “feel-good” neurotransmitter. The tea is also rich in minerals, vitamins, and its antioxidant properties are stronger than green tea! It may help:
- Boost focus and energy.
The herbal infusion has a diuretic and slightly laxative effect, as it reduces fluid retention and improves renal function. This helps the body eliminate toxins and purify itself. Several studies observed improved alertness, short-term recall and reaction time in participants who consumed it. Additionally, those who regularly drink the tea often rave that it enhances alertness like coffee — but without the jittery side effects.