This traditional South American drink is made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant steeped in hot water. It’s known for its invigorating taste and high caffeine content. This drink shows its properties for a relatively long time. For an experienced drinker, 2-3 servings a day should not be something extraordinary. Moderation is always required. This drink contains about 80 milligrams of caffeine per cup — almost twice the amount in black tea but less than half that of coffee.
Moreover, drinking this beverage with other caffeinated drinks can significantly increase its effects. Therefore, it’s important to understand your personal needs when consuming it to properly enjoy its benefits without putting your health at risk. South Americans safely drink upwards of 1–4 liters daily while in North America and Europe it’s not uncommon for an avid drinker to consume at least 1–2 liters per day.
This drink contains beneficial compounds which can help prevent oxidative damage, regulate energy metabolism, and modulate antioxidant enzymes. The caffeine in it can worsen diarrhea and increase eye pressure due to the caffeine. It may protect against heart disease and provide some anxiety relief.
Below is the caffeine content:
- Green tea: 25 mg
- White tea: 28 mg
- This drink: 30-50 mg
- Coffee: 100-200 mg
It’s best to store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to extend its 1-2 year shelf life. Freezing is possible but may lead to freezer burn without proper precautions. It should be discarded if any signs of spoilage like discoloration, smell or taste changes are present.
This popular South American drink made from yerba mate tree leaves is often compared to coffee for caffeine content. It can help people stay awake and alert with effects lasting 4-6 hours.
It contains compounds that provide a soothing feeling, which may help some fall asleep. It also contains magnesium, zinc, B vitamins and other nutrients which can aid sleep.
The caffeine has been identified as a stimulant. When taken before a planned nap or night sleep, it may affect sleep by making you feel more alert and awake longer than planned. It can also reduce total sleep time.
Unlike coffee, it provides a steady rise in energy, stimulating mind and body without causing jitters.
Drinking it may increase cancer risk for heavy smokers or drinkers. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people with anxiety issues. Too much can also cause typical caffeine overdose symptoms.
This beverage is commonly consumed in South America with upwards of 1-4 liters drunk per day. In North America and Europe, avid drinkers may consume 1-2 liters daily. It contains less caffeine than coffee but more than tea. As with other caffeinated foods and drinks, it may increase energy and reduce tiredness.
It is often drunk in the morning or with meals. Studies suggest consumption with high-fat, high-protein, low-carb meals may lessen anxiety. South Americans drink it throughout the day from morning until evening. Despite being considered a social drink, solitary morning consumption like coffee occurs.
As a plant, risks of cancer are unclear but some compounds may prevent it. High, long-term consumption may increase oral, throat and lung cancer risk with smoking and alcohol. Pregnant women should exercise caution.
The caffeine and unique nutrients provide a stimulating effect. Up to three grams daily for twelve weeks is considered safe. It may have benefits for cholesterol, weight loss, heart health, inflammation and cancer risk, but more research is needed.
This popular South American drink made from yerba mate tree leaves is often compared to coffee. The effects typically last about four hours. Those more sensitive may take longer to feel the effects, while those with higher tolerance may start sooner.
It contains compounds that provide relaxation, almost like a soothing wave through the body, which might help some fall asleep. Containing caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline along with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, polyphenols, and more, this stimulant has an effect compared to other teas or coffees.
It is traditionally consumed in central and southern regions of South America, primarily Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia and Chile. When served cold, it is called tereré in Guaraní.
The caffeine can worsen diarrhea. Using it increases eye pressure due to the caffeine within 30 minutes lasting at least 90 minutes. If you have glaucoma, discuss use with your healthcare provider.
It may lower heart disease risk. Cell and animal studies report that extract may provide protection. It also has a diuretic and slightly laxative effect, helping eliminate toxins and purify the body.
Here is the procedure:
- Put two teaspoons in a container, cover and turn upside down. Shake to mix.
- Throw away powder on hand.
- Return container, add hot (not boiling) water to moisten leaves, create paste.
- Immerse bombilla where water poured, add more hot water from bombilla side.
- Start drinking until finished.