Maté is a traditional South American drink made by steeping the leaves of the maté plant in hot water. It has a high caffeine content and unique, invigorating taste. This article explores how long maté’s effects last.
Duration of Effects
The effects of drinking maté can be felt within minutes due to its quick absorption rate. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for an immediate pick-me-up. The stimulating effects may start to fade after about 2 hours, however this depends on how much was consumed and individual tolerance levels.
One way to make the maté last longer is to avoid overdiffusing the tea leaves. Overdiffusing can lead to more tannins being released, making the drink taste bitter and lose its stimulating properties faster.
Consuming too much caffeine from maté can cause headaches, anxiety, insomnia and increased blood pressure in some people. If you experience these caffeine overdose symptoms, reduce your overall daily caffeine intake.
Start slowly with moderate amounts until you find the ideal maté quantity and frequency for you. Most side effects relate to its caffeine content when consumed in excess.
Maté is native to Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Southern Brazil. It is traditionally consumed in regions of South America. Maté was first cultivated and used by the indigenous Guaraní people prior to European colonization. As Mayo clinic suggests, drinking maté regularly for an extended period, can increase your risk of developing diseases like cancer. This is because maté contains PAHs which are usually carcinogenic.
In United States and Europe, it’s not uncommon for an avid maté drinker to consume 1–2 liters daily. The amount you consume will depend on your tolerance and preference.
Maté contains caffeine, which can increase alertness and focus. But it can also make it harder to sleep at night. Consuming maté too close to bedtime can delay sleep onset. The caffeine takes time to metabolize, keeping you awake.
Most side effects are related to caffeine when taken in large amounts. Too much caffeine can cause headaches, anxiety, insomnia and increased blood pressure. It’s important to ensure appropriate water temperature. Drinking large amounts of hot liquids over time may lead to esophageal cancer.
If you experience caffeine overdose side effects, reduce your caffeine intake. Studies indicate people who drink large amounts long term may have increased cancer risk. Smoking combined with maté greatly increases this risk. One explanation is PAHs found in both tobacco and maté are carcinogenic.
So how much maté should you drink? Avoid constant consumption, 2-3 beverages at most per day. Avoid evening consumption, especially if caffeine sensitive.
Safe Consumption Limit
Maté is an herb, like oregano and mint. Some studies show it may have benefits, but more research is needed. It has caffeine and can affect sleep. Listen to your body to see if it affects your sleep quality. In the Americas, some drink 1-2 liters daily. Maté may be safe in adults for up to 12 weeks when consuming 3 grams daily. It is made by steeping dried maté plant leaves in hot water. This gives it an earthy flavor. It’s a traditional South American drink with origins in indigenous cultures. Avoid drinking maté in the evening, especially if sensitive to caffeine. Studies conflict on cancer risk. Seek medical care for overdose symptoms like fast heartbeat, vomiting or confusion. If you have side effects like this, reduce caffeine intake.
Maté is a plant consumed as a tea-like beverage in South America. Traditionally, the leaves are steeped in hot water and sipped through a filtered straw called a bombilla. Bombillas allow flavor to come through while filtering out leaves.
Drinking maté forces you to slow down and focus during preparation. Sharing the maté with friends facilitates enjoyable conversation. A good thermos will keep water hot for prolonged maté drinking.
Maté boosts energy and mental clarity due to its caffeine and antioxidant content. It may also provide some brain protection. However, maté may reduce iron absorption or pose cancer risks when consumed excessively or at high temperatures.
The indigenous Guaraní first cultivated maté in parts of South America. The flavor is earthy with hints of fruit or citrus. The caffeine provides alertness without jitters or crashes. But it can break fasts, so some people should avoid it.