What is Mate Tea?
Does mate give you a buzz?
Its caffeine content provides a steady energy boost from theobromine and caffeine. South Americans safely drink 1-4 liters daily. In North America and Europe, drinking 1-2 liters daily is common. It is consumed as a morning pick-me-up. However, South Americans drink it all day.
Taste
The taste depends on preparation and brand. It can taste bitter thanks to tannins. Some enjoy the bitter flavor, while others add mint, honey, or citrus. You may have a strong or slightly milder bitter taste depending on brand. The leaves can also taste smokey.
Health Benefits
This tea boosts alertness, focus, and physical performance due to caffeine. It motivates by stimulating dopamine production. But it does not cause jitters like coffee can.
Drinking this tea may relax blood vessels, increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery. It also lowers blood pressure and protects cardiovascular health. If you have high blood pressure, drinking it regularly may prevent more severe heart disease. The leaves contain vasodilators that increase circulation and boost immune cells when fighting diseases like cancer.
It provides healthy stimulation with less caffeine than coffee or green tea but more nutrients. The leaves offer strength and euphoria. Indigenous South Americans called it “drink of the gods.”
Safety
Including lemon verbena, or burro/burrito herbs seems safe to drink along with mate. It contains vitamins and stimulating compounds like caffeine and theobromine. It may boost health in moderation but taking too much for too long can increase cancer risks somewhat.
Overview
- Mate leaves are naturally caffeinated for a tangy, floral, sweet, energizing drink.
- Research hasn’t conclusively linked it to cancer.
- Side effects may include insomnia and stomach upset.
- It can last two years stored.
- Mate can be served hot or cold.