Who should not take the herbal tea?
The herbal tea is from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. The leaves are dried and infused in hot water. This tea is sipped from a gourd with a metal straw. The gourd is shared among friends. It contains antioxidants. Its antioxidant capacity is approximately 90 percent higher than green tea. This comes from its polyphenols. Polyphenols improve natural defenses and cell health.
The herbal tea is now widely available thanks to online stores. It was less available in the past. It can provide energy. It may also relieve fatigue, aid weight loss, ease depression, and treat headaches. But there is limited evidence for these benefits.
Cancer Risk
Studies link the herbal tea’s cancer risk to the high temperatures it’s consumed at, not the mate itself. Mate drinking countries consume it at 158-185°F. Consuming any liquid at this temperature elevates cancer risk. Given mate drinking frequency in these countries, this likely explains higher esophageal cancer rates there. A 2019 report states mate itself does not appear carcinogenic.
History and Folklore
The herbal tea is native to South America. It has a long history as a social drink. Its popularity rivals coffee and tea there. It has vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants absent in coffee or tea. Its origins contain much folklore. But the herbal tea is now enjoyed worldwide.
The plant grows in the shade of the rainforest. This produces the best tasting mate. The herb is from South America. It’s a popular hot drink there. The seeds only germinate after digestion by specific birds. This makes commercial growing difficult. So the herb is more precious.
Health Benefits
The herbal tea contains antioxidants. It also contains stimulants like caffeine. This provides an energy boost without a crash later.
The Indigenous people first consumed the herbal tea. They saw it as a gift from the gods. Variations allow other ways to enjoy it. It can be prepared similar to normal tea.
Some studies suggest that the tea may have helpful effects on cholesterol, weight loss, the heart, swelling called inflammation and cancer risk. But more research is needed to confirm these links. The herbal tea is proven to contain a very unique powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, polyphenols, saponins, and much, much more.
Compared to Coffee
Although coffee and the herbal tea have obvious differences, the effect each beverage has on the body is pretty big. Take a look at how it differs from coffee:
- It is less acidic.
- Fewer jitters.