Cancer Risk
Drinking large amounts (1-2 liters daily) for a long time increases the risk of some types of cancer, especially for smokers or alcohol drinkers. Consuming over 10 cups daily might increase serious caffeine-related side effects.
It contains caffeine, causing insomnia, upset stomach, increased heart rate. Large, long-term amounts are possibly unsafe.
Digestive Health
If you want a healthy digestive tract, it is safer than coffee. It fights parasites and cleans naturally.
What is Yerba Mate?
It is made from steeping dried leaves in hot water. Like black or green tea, it has caffeine for alertness. Most research suggests daily consumption is safe up to 12 weeks, with possible benefits for cholesterol, weight, heart, inflammation and cancer risk.
It can take ten refills for it to lose flavor. Store it in original bag, sealed, in cool, dry, room temperature area. Expired product is safe to drink.
More on Cancer Risk
Some studies link drinking very hot mate to increased cancer risk. It has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds with protective properties.
South Americans safely drink 1-4 liters daily. Avid U.S. drinkers consume 1-2 liters daily. Amount depends on tolerance and preference. It seems adaptogenic, like mint tea.
It is made from the leaves and twigs of the South American holly tree. It contains caffeine and antioxidants.
Some research shows that drinking a lot of very hot mate over a long time is linked to increased risk of mouth, throat, and lung cancers. However, drinking 1-2 cups per day seems safe.
It provides an energy boost due to its caffeine content. Caffeine is linked to increased alertness, concentration, and physical performance. It also stimulates production of dopamine, which improves mood.
Preparation Methods
The leaves are dried over a fire, giving it a smoky flavor. It can be served hot or cold. It is traditionally drunk from a gourd using a special metal straw that contains a filter.
Some studies suggest it may improve mental focus, memory, and nerve health. It also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. However more research is needed on its brain-related benefits.
Pregnant women should not drink it unless approved by a doctor. People with diabetes should use caution as it may affect blood sugar control.
It is made from the leaves and stems of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It contains caffeine, antioxidants, and nutrients. Studies show it can boost energy, burn fat, lower LDL cholesterol, and manage body weight. It also has anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic properties.
However, frequent and prolonged consumption of very hot mate is associated with increased risk of several cancers. This seems to be due to the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which are found in tobacco smoke and grilled meats. Cooling the tea helps reduce risks.
Too much can cause side effects like irregular heartbeat, anxiety, headache, and ringing in the ears. Those taking antidepressants like Zoloft should ask doctors before drinking it or other herbal teas.
How to Prepare Yerba Mate
To prepare it, add it to hot (not boiling) water and let it steep for 3-5 minutes. It can be prepared traditionally in a gourd and bombilla, or with teabags or a French press. The flavor is earthy and grassy. It is a nutritious, energizing tea, but moderation is advised.
It is a traditional South American drink made from the dried leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It is usually served hot in a cup called a guampa, with a metal straw. The flavor can vary depending on how it is processed and prepared. It contains about 78 mg of caffeine per cup, more than tea but less than coffee.
It has many potential health benefits. It provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It may boost energy, improve digestion, aid weight loss, and have anti-cancer effects. However, drinking very hot mate may increase risk of esophageal cancer.
Processing and Preparation
After harvest, the leaves are dried over a fire. This speeds up the oxidation process. The drying method affects the flavor.
The way it is consumed also varies by country. In Paraguay, people often drink it cold. This style is called tereré. Too much can also cause jitteriness, nausea or stomach issues due to its caffeine content. People sensitive to stimulants should use caution with it.