Who should not take yerba mate?
In the U.S., this herbal tea is widely available. People who recommend it say that it can relieve fatigue, aid in weight loss, ease depression, and help treat headaches. There’s limited evidence that it may help with some of these conditions. What does it taste like? Strong, bitter, and vegetal, it has a very distinctive taste that can require adjusting to.
Where to Buy Yerba Mate
Whether you’re looking for more brands to try, the best prices/deals, or just a store able to ship to your country so you can finally get a taste of this herb, PampaDirect is one of the largest selections I’ve seen but they also offer them for a low price.
Description
It is part of the Aquifoliaceae family, of which there are around 550 variants within this family of plants, of which only two or three are used for mate/maté. But it has been known to grow as high as 18 meters in height.
Culture and Traditions
In many Latin American countries sharing a gourd is a tradition. Here are some reasons why you should visit Latin American grocery stores: Traditional rituals in Latin American culture.
How Yerba Mate Compares to Other Beverages
It is an herbal tea. Like black or green tea it has caffeine, which can make you feel more alert and focused. Drinking it isn’t linked to health problems in most adults. Some studies suggest the tea may have helpful effects on cholesterol, weight loss, and cancer risk. But more research is needed.
History and Origins
It is popular in its native South America. Thanks to its reputation as an antioxidant-packed, jitter-free alternative to coffee and tea, it’s gaining popularity here too. Known as Ilex paraguariensis, it is a plant native to South America used by humans for around 3000 years.
It is a hot drink brewed from dried leaves of a shrub native to regions of South America. Although preparations vary, the culture transcends borders. “Drinking it is a personal treat or the link that connects everyone,” says Betina.
Global Popularity
You may be surprised to hear the tradition of drinking it is present in the Middle East too. Syria and Lebanon are the largest importers.
Benefits
It provides an energy boost with nutrients. It offers the strength of coffee, health of tea, and euphoria of chocolate. First, let’s take a look at the evidence-based mental and physical benefits.
What is Yerba Mate?
It is made from dried leaves of a South American holly steeped in hot water. It has a distinctive flavor described as similar to green tea but more herbal. It’s well known for its caffeine content, typically between tea and coffee. Brewing in a traditional container increases caffeine.
Traditional Preparation
There are 4 components:
1) Gourd – the basic cup.
2) Bombilla – the metal straw.
3) Dried leaves.
4) Hot Water – for infusion.
The gourds can be simple or elaborate like a cow hoof one.
Health Risks
This tea is considered unsafe in pregnancy and breastfeeding as it contains caffeine that increases risks.
Which Brand is Best?
It is a traditional South American drink made from the dried leaves. It is known for its unique flavor and energizing properties. It has been consumed in South America for centuries and is deeply rooted in the culture. It is often shared communally and brings people together during social gatherings.
Benefits and Effects
One benefit is the natural energy boost it provides. It can also help lower blood sugar levels, promote weight loss, and reduce inflammation. The exact mechanisms behind these health benefits are still being explored.
It is served by a cebador and shared among friends as a sign of camaraderie, often alongside food. It is consumed as a morning pick-me-up, but South Americans frequently drink it throughout the day and evening. Refusing an offer is considered rude.
It provides long-lasting stimulation unlike the caffeine crash from coffee. It promotes calm like tea due to adaptogenic properties.
Traditional Preparation
The traditional preparation uses a cured gourd, bombilla and hot water. The bombilla filters out leaf fragments. Friends and family share the gourd in a circle, passing the communal cup.
Health Risks
Drinking very hot, especially continuously at high temperatures, may increase cancer risks partly due to substances called PAHs present in yerba mate. Pregnant women should limit caffeine due to increased miscarriage and low birth weight risk.
Consumption by Country
Uruguay consumes the most per person. Their style uses mainly powder and small leaves without stems. It provides an energy boost from caffeine along with more nutrients than coffee or tea and other health benefits, but more research is needed to confirm effects.