Benefits
This South American tea contains antioxidants that may protect against cancers, heart disease, liver disease, and inflammation. The caffeine provides energy. But it also has risks for some people, like those with heart conditions. More research is needed. Tips include: not drinking at extremely hot temperatures, moderating intake, and using caution if you have an underlying health condition.
Safety
How many cups of this tea a day is safe?
Drinking one to two cups daily for up to 12 weeks is safe. More may increase cancer risk, especially combined with smoking or alcohol.
This tea is rich in PAHs which are carcinogenic. PAHs also exist in tobacco smoke and grilled meat. More research on side effects is needed. Those with sleep issues should restrict consumption after 6 pm, as it can worsen problems.
A daily cup made with three grams of leaves for 12 weeks seems safe. It may have beneficial effects like weight loss or lower inflammation. But more studies confirm this. Some studies link drinking one to two liters daily long-term to mouth, throat and lung cancers.
Studies associate cancer risk with the hot temperatures it’s consumed at, not the tea itself. Countries drinking at 158-185oF have higher esophageal cancer rates. Considering the high daily intake, it reasonably impacts health.
Cancer Risks
This tea has antioxidant and energy-boosting compounds. But drinking very hot above 149°F may increase cancer risk due to PAHs that are carcinogenic.
This tea contains caffeine and antioxidants. It has some potential health benefits but more research is needed.
Some studies link increased risk of esophageal cancer when consumed very hot. Cancer likely involves many factors. Esophageal cancer rates are higher where drinking very hot is common.
Overall evidence is mixed on cancer risk. It has some promising health benefits but may increase throat/esophageal cancer risk when consumed very hot. More research is needed.
Is there anything bad about this?
This tea containing caffeine has anti-oxidants helping prevent cancers. However, studies find cancer-causing PAHs in it. Hot may increase esophageal cancer risk. The higher the temperature and steeping time, the higher the risk.
This tea boosts mental functions. But the cancer risks likely involve lifestyle factors. Hot drinks alone raise esophageal cancer risks.
Drinking very hot over long periods likely raises cancer risks. But moderate intake shows little risk. Those with high blood pressure or heart issues should limit caffeine intake.