Mate is a traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It was originally popular with indigenous groups and cowboys who used it for its stimulating effects. When consumed, mate can increase energy, alertness, and focus. The effects start within 5-10 minutes and can last up to a few hours, depending on the amount consumed.
Mate contains caffeine as well as other nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s commonly consumed socially by passing around a shared gourd. Some potential health benefits of mate include increased energy and mental focus, weight loss benefits, improved heart health, and antioxidant effects.
However, mate may also have some risks. It contains PAHs, which are carcinogens also found in tobacco smoke and grilled meats. The traditional social consumption method also poses potential hygiene issues. Additionally, over-consuming mate can lead to side effects like headache, insomnia, and nervousness due to the caffeine content.
Overall, mate likely offers a number of benefits, especially when consumed in moderation. It provides a natural energy boost and is packed with healthy antioxidants. As with any stimulant, starting slow and avoiding overconsumption is best.
Mate provides an energy boost similar to coffee, but with less caffeine and more nutrients. Its effects can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on how much is consumed. When it comes to feeling stimulated, the effects of drinking mate can be felt within minutes due to its quick absorption rate. The stimulating effects may start to fade after about 2 hours, however this will depend on individual tolerance levels. One way to make sure that you get the most out of your mate is to avoid overdiffusing the tea leaves, as this can lead to a bitter, less stimulating drink.
The caffeine in mate can worsen diarrhea, especially when taken in large amounts. It also increases eye pressure, with effects occurring within 30 minutes and lasting at least 90 minutes. So if you have glaucoma, discuss your mate consumption with your healthcare provider.
While caffeinated like coffee and green tea, mate has some differences. It provides the same stimulation as coffee without making the drinker jittery. Coffee drinkers often suffer a caffeine crash, but mate has adaptogenic properties to regulate the body’s systems. It’s packed with more nutrients than coffee or green tea because of its high levels of antioxidants, saponins, vitamins, tannins and polyphenols. These compounds help prevent oxidative damage, regulate energy metabolism and protect the brain.
Compared to coffee, energy drinks and other teas, mate has a starkly different effect on the mind. Containing caffeine, theobromine and theophylline along with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, polyphenols and more, this healthy stimulant concoction isn’t psychedelic or hallucinogenic but it’s the closest thing to it.
Traditionally, mate was designed to be shared as part of a ceremonial experience between friends and community. The flavor varies greatly depending on the soil quality and region it is grown in. It’s important to start slowly with moderate amounts until the ideal quantity and frequency for you is found. Too much can cause side effects similar to coffee due to the caffeine content. An appropriate water temperature should be used to avoid harming your mouth and esophagus long-term.
The longer you let mate brew, the more caffeine and nutrients will be extracted. Using the traditional gourd and bombilla will produce a stronger infusion compared to tea bags. The strength of the brew will impact how long the energizing effects last, from a few minutes up to several hours.
To make mate last longer, avoid overdiffusing the tea leaves which can cause increased bitterness and faster loss of stimulating properties. The foam is an indicator of whether your mate is completely washed. Experienced drinkers may have 2-3 servings from the same mate without loss of flavor.