South American Plant vs Asian Plant
The South American plant is grown for making herbal tea. Green tea is from Asia and Africa. Both plants need 3 years before first harvest. The South American drink is popular in South America. Green tea is a daily drink in Asia. Ilex paraguariensis and Camellia sinesis have similar potential.
Nutrition Comparison
In particular, the South American tea contains Chlorogenic Acid. Green tea has little. Chlorogenic Acid helps:
- Reduce cancer cells
- Destroy bacteria
The South American tea has 30-50 milligrams caffeine per cup, similar to green tea. However, it also has other xanthines, which enhance caffeine.
Both aid weight loss.
The South American beverage is rich in chlorogenic acid. Green tea has catechins like EGCG. Both have antioxidants protecting from free radicals.
The South American drink has more vitamins and minerals than green tea. Both offer health benefits. Choice depends on needs.
Flavor Profiles
The South American tea has earthy, floral flavor. Strength varies by preparation. New drinkers may find taste acquired. Those who enjoy develop attachment.
Preparation Methods
The South American plant drink is prepared by brewing the leaves in warm water and then sipping it using a metal straw called bombilla. It has an intense, bitter flavor compared to the delicate, earthy green tea. However, the flavor varies based on the variety, preparation method, and added sweeteners.
Health Effects
What does the South American tea do for the body?
It contains more caffeine than green tea. It provides smooth, sustained energy throughout the day, not an energy spike and crash.
Some research relates it to weight loss and reducing bad cholesterol. It may also have cancer-fighting antioxidants. However, long-term consumption in some people may increase cancer risk. As a stimulant, moderation is important. More research on its benefits is needed.
Pros and Cons
What are the pros and cons of the South American drink?
It contains more caffeine than green tea, offering more fat burning and metabolism-boosting benefits. The higher caffeine levels make it a more potent appetite-suppressant. This means it can help avoid overeating and make it easier to stay in a calorie deficit.
Key Differences
Ilex paraguariensis is a South American plant used for making the herbal tea. Camellia sinesis is an Asian and African plant used for making all types of tea – green, yellow, white, oolong, black and dark. Both plants need about 3 years before the first harvest.
- The South American drink is a predominant South American beverage and Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia and Brazil’s national drink.
- Green tea is a daily Asian drink and a cultural drink in Japan, China, Taiwan, India, Vietnam and other Asian countries.
- Ilex paraguariensis and Camellia sinesis are two very different plants sharing similar great potential.
The South American tea is a health food trend and item on the market. But what is it, and what’s the difference between green tea vs. it? Below is everything to know about choosing between green tea and the South American drink:
Antioxidants
It is a powerhouse when it comes to antioxidants. Interestingly, it has more antioxidants than many teas, even green tea. Green tea is rich in catechins, an antioxidant known for various health benefits.
Here’s a quick chart outlining the main differences:
| South American Tea | Green Tea |
|---|---|
| It has an earthy, slightly bitter flavor profile | It has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor profile |
| It has higher caffeine content | It has lower caffeine content |
Blood Sugar and Weight Loss
The South American tea is a solid choice for individuals struggling with blood sugar swings and diabetes. It has anti-obesity effects, reducing the time it takes to perceive gastric fullness. As a result, overweight patients lost weight over 45 days. It has potential to influence one’s caloric intake and meal satiation.
Origin
The main difference is origin. It comes from the Ilex Paraguariensis shrub plant. Green tea comes from the Camellia Sinesis plant used for other teas. Green tea is popular in Asian countries. The South American drink is mainly consumed in Argentina.