How many times can you infuse the leaves?
The plant is native to South America. It can be brewed into a tea-like beverage. You can reuse the leaves around 5 times before losing flavor. Use a large teapot or other equipment when making large batches. Let it steep 3-5 minutes.
Drinking regularly over long periods seems to increase cancer risk. This is especially true for people who smoke. It may also reduce appetite and boost metabolism to help with weight loss.
You can make tea with a strainer, tea pot, French press or coffee maker. Use 1 tablespoon per 8 ounces of water. Tea bags can also work but may be too mild in flavor.
Traditionally, it is sipped continuously for hours. More leaves or water are added as needed. Drinking releases more nutrients and flavor. It is often enjoyed socially while gathering in nature.
Growing from seeds can be difficult. Seeds must be planted quickly after harvesting to germinate. Success is still not guaranteed. The seeds are not readily sold.
How many grams to water ratio?
The plant is made into a tea called mate. This tea has energy-boosting effects and health benefits. Originating in South America, it’s traditionally consumed in gourds with a straw.
It is typically brewed using 10 grams of loose leaves per cup of water. This amount allows extracting its beneficial compounds without overpowering the flavor. It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
The amount used per cup varies depending on personal preference, brew strength, cup size, and taste buds. On average, most people use 2-3 tablespoons per cup. However, some may use more or less.
To make: Add 1-2 tablespoons of leaves to a French press or strainer. Moisten with cool water. Add 8 oz 170°F hot water. Steep 5 minutes then strain. Flavor as desired.
What can I add to tereré?
Tereré is an infusion prepared with cold water, ice and medicinal herbs. This cold-brewed drink originated in Pre-Columbian America. Tereré is believed to refresh the body and be a low-calorie, non-alcoholic beverage. It holds cultural significance in Paraguay and is often enjoyed socially.
The main ingredients for making tereré are ground leaves and cold water. Ice is added to make the drink extra cold. Popular additions include fruit juices such as orange, lemon, lime, mango and pineapple or herbs like mint, lemon verbena and lemongrass. These extra ingredients enhance flavor or provide health benefits.
Tereré is traditionally served in a guampa, a gourd made from a bull’s horn, with a bombilla straw. These utensils enhance the ritual of drinking tereré. For storage, tereré should be kept in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
The possibilities for experimenting with tereré recipes are endless by mixing in various juices, lemonades, tonics or liquors. Custom combinations can be created to suit individual tastes.
How many times should you steep?
Experimenting with the steep time can have benefits and can lead to taste variations.
What are the side effects?
It contains caffeine, which can cause inability to sleep, nervousness and restlessness, upset stomach, nausea and vomiting, increased heart rate and breathing, and other side effects when taken in large amounts or for long periods of time.
How Much Tea Is Safe To Drink?
Locals in south America drink anywhere from 1- 4 litres of this goodness a DAY! That’s A LOT! I wouldn’t recommend drinking that much, especially at the beginning if you aren’t used to that much caffeine. As with most ‘herbal’ teas, it’s best to limit consumption.