Health Benefits
The gourd herb is full of healthful compounds. It has antioxidants, boosts the immune system, increases aerobic capacity, stimulates the brain, protects the heart, decreases cholesterol, protects the liver. The caffeine content depends on the brewing time and amount of leaves used. A cup contains about 40 milligrams of caffeine compared to 60-180 milligrams in coffee.
Nutritional Content
The South American plant has a bitter, earthy, herbal flavor. It contains polyphenols, xanthines, caffeoyl derivatives, saponins, vitamins C, B1, B2, and the minerals zinc, chromium, potassium, copper, iron, manganese and nickel.
Energy and Medicinal Uses
The mate plant provides an energy boost with less caffeine than coffee. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Studies show it kills human colon cancer cells. It’s a source of fatty acids, vitamins, minerals.
However, it contains carcinogens found in tobacco. Excessive drinking has been linked to digestive tract and respiratory cancers. It’s not determined if drinking during pregnancy or breastfeeding is safe.
Mate stimulates the central nervous system. Excessive drinking can cause restlessness, irritability and rapid heart rate. It may interfere with some medications. The traditional way to drink mate is hot with a filtered straw in a hollow gourd. People also enjoy it iced.
Origins and Preparation
The mate tree is grown in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. It contains 24 vitamins and minerals, 15 amino acids, and abundant antioxidants. The gourd herb provides energy because it has caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline.
To make mate, use a French press or bombilla. Pour hot water over leaves and let steep for 3-5 minutes before drinking. You can find loose leaf or tea bags in most grocery stores.
Health Benefits
The plant has been used in South America for nutritional and medicinal purposes. It’s high in polyphenols and antioxidants which protect the body. Studies show it can help with weight loss, brain function, energy, immunity, anxiety, heart health, blood sugar, and infections.
You don’t need fancy equipment to prepare the South American drink. Use hot water that’s not boiling to avoid a bitter taste. Let it steep for 3-5 minutes. Drink 1-3 cups per day. Even high doses are considered safe. Adjust consumption based on your health.
Origins and History
Its leaves are used to make a beverage called mate. Mate is consumed in Central and South American countries. It is also consumed around the world in energy drinks and weight loss supplements. The gourd herb comes from a shrub originally used by Guaraní. These were ancient people in parts of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina.
Nutritional Content
The plant contains 85 mg of caffeine per cup. This is between coffee and tea. Brewing time affects caffeine amount. It has high vitamin and mineral content. Vitamins boost the immune system and promote health. Main minerals are calcium and iron.
Cognitive Effects
The South American drink has nootropic properties. It contains caffeine and theobromine. These compounds may increase cognitive function.
The gourd herb originates in South America. It has been widely consumed for centuries. Some believe it provides health benefits. Mate has a bitter taste. Preparing and drinking mate are ceremonial.
Preparation and Consumption
The plant drink is made by steeping dried leaves in hot water. It can be served cold or hot. Like black or green tea, it has caffeine. Drinking mate isn’t linked to health problems in most adults. Some studies suggest that the tea may have helpful effects. But more research is needed.
Mate leaves are high in xanthines, caffeine, and theobromine. These compounds give mate stimulating effects and a somewhat bitter taste. Mate also contains vitamin C.
Cancer Risk
There is no proof drinking mate causes cancer. Drinking large amounts of very hot liquids over time may increase cancer risk. So avoid high temperatures. Moderate temperatures are healthier and improve the taste.
The increased alertness from mate comes from nervous system stimulation. This may cause issues for some people with heart disease. There’s no evidence mate itself impacts cancer risk.