Mate is an herbal tea made from the dried leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It is traditionally consumed in parts of South America, especially Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil.
South Americans safely drink 1-4 liters of mate per day. In North America and Europe, avid mate drinkers often consume 1-2 liters daily. The amount you drink mainly depends on your personal tolerance and preference.
Like other herbs such as mint and parsley, mate provides antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Research on potential cancer risks is unclear, with some studies showing it may help prevent cancer. Too much of anything is rarely advisable.
With 85mg of caffeine per cup, mate contains less caffeine than coffee but more than traditional tea. It may increase energy without causing coffee’s nervousness. When taken in large, long-term amounts, mate can increase cancer risks. Moderation is key.
The best time to drink mate is morning or with meals, rather than later when it can affect sleep. Mate could provide increased energy, better concentration and focus.
Mate is a South American drink with cultural significance. The traditional preparation involves using a cured gourd, bombilla, and hot water. Mate offers health benefits and can be consumed at different times for different purposes.
Studies are mixed on whether mate affects sleep. It’s best to avoid high doses after 6 pm.
Mayo Clinic suggests occasional drinkers do not suffer diseases, but regular long-term drinkers may risk mouth, esophagus or lung cancer. More research is needed.
Mate is a tea made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis tree native to South America. It has been widely consumed in South America for centuries as a beverage. Mate contains caffeine and other stimulants that provide an energy boost. It also contains antioxidants and nutrients that may offer health benefits. Potential benefits of drinking mate can include:
- Increased energy and reduced fatigue
- Support for healthy digestion
- Strengthened immune system
- Improved heart and liver health
- Weight loss support
Mate is traditionally served in a container called a calabash or gourd and sipped through a metal straw. It can also be prepared similarly to coffee using a French press. Mate brewed with hot water can be consumed hot or cold. It contains about 78 mg of caffeine per cup, which is typically more than tea but less than coffee.
There is some concern that drinking very hot mate regularly over prolonged periods may increase the risk of mouth, esophagus or lung cancer. However, mate also contains antioxidants that may help prevent cancer. More research is needed in this area. Avoid smoking in combination with drinking mate as it greatly increases cancer risk.
As with other caffeinated drinks, limit mate intake to avoid potential side effects. Drink mate in moderation, avoid over-consuming caffeine, and stop drinking it by early evening to prevent sleep disruption. Overall, mate is likely safe for healthy adults when consumed occasionally in moderate amounts.