Mate contains about 78 mg of caffeine per 5 oz cup, which is just less than coffee at 85 mg. However, it provides a more sustainable energy boost without the jitters or crash some experience from coffee. An 8-ounce serving of brewed mate contains about 85 mg of caffeine compared to 130 mg in coffee and 50 mg in green tea.
The herb has a lighter, less bitter taste than coffee or tea, making it more enjoyable to drink for some people. It does not contain the high levels of tannins found in tea. The caffeine content can vary based on the quality of leaves used and the length of brewing time, with higher quality leaves and longer brew times producing more caffeine. Most recommendations suggest limiting intake to 3-4 cups per day or less for those sensitive to caffeine.
Possible side effects of too much caffeine from the herb or other sources can include anxiety, insomnia, increased heart rate and blood pressure. But it contains compounds like chlorogenic acid and theobromine that interact with caffeine differently than coffee, which some claim gives it a less jittery effect. More research is still needed on the unique interactions of these compounds with caffeine in the herb.
The cancer risk is still unclear, though its antioxidant content may help prevent cancer. As with any plant, moderation is key when consuming it.
The herb contains about 30-70 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce serving, providing a natural energy boost. While coffee drinkers often experience jitters or a crash afterward, mate consumers don’t. It has deep cultural roots in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
The caffeine content can vary depending on the type, processing method, and brewing technique. Some can contain up to 100 milligrams of caffeine per serving. Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant that enhances alertness.
Compared to coffee, it generally contains less caffeine, with an average of 30-50 milligrams per 8 ounces versus 95 milligrams in coffee. However, mate and coffee both provide an energy boost. It offers antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, providing stimulation combined with soothing effects.
Let’s compare the herb to other caffeinated drinks first.
- One cup of mate tea has around 70mg caffeine on average.
- Coffee sits between 80 to 150mg per cup.
- Tea
- green tea 25mg
- black tea 50mg
The caffeine content depends on the type and brewing method. Dry leaves contain 1-1.5% caffeine. The brewed tea then sits between 20 to 180mg per cup.
Is too much mate bad for you? Consuming more than 400mg caffeine daily is not recommended. Above this may cause anxiety, insomnia issues. Understand your intake level.
- An 8oz cup contains 30-50mg caffeine. So 1-2 cups per day is moderate.
- If pregnant or on medications, check with your doctor on safe levels.
- Kids and teenagers should also limit intake.
How much can you drink then? In South America, drinking 1-2 liters daily is common for mate lovers. Treat it as you would other herbs – based on your own tolerance. It seems to be an adaptogenic herb – adjusting to meet your body’s needs.
So enjoy the flavor and energy lift. Just be aware of your caffeine intake, and drink in moderation for the health benefits. Consumed wisely, it can satisfy in a balanced way.
At 85 mg per cup, the herb contains less caffeine than coffee but more than tea. Therefore, like any caffeinated food or beverage, it may increase energy levels.