With 78 mg of caffeine per 5 oz cup, mate tea contains less caffeine than coffee but more than tea. Compared to the 80 mg in Red Bull, original Club-Mate the herbal tea drink contains 100 mg of caffeine. What makes the tea’s caffeine boost different is its mix of caffeine with nutrients.
A cup of strong black tea has about 50 mg of caffeine, still much less than in the herbal tea. So mate tea provides more of an energy boost. The tea has a long history of use by South American athletes to feel more energetic. Today it is consumed worldwide by people seeking a mental and physical boost.
Black tea vs mate tea
While black tea has a bold flavor and moderate caffeine, the herbal tea has an earthy taste and a balanced energy lift. Both provide antioxidants and potential health benefits when consumed in moderation.
Caffeine content by tea type
The lighter the tea, the less processed and lower in caffeine. White and purple teas have least caffeine. Darker teas like black and pu-erh have more.
Factors like soil, cultivation, and processing affect caffeine levels. One black tea may have 60 mg caffeine per cup, another 70 mg.
Tea caffeine releases slower than coffee, sharpening mind over time versus coffee’s fast caffeine high then energy drop.
Oolong tea
Oolong tea has 10-60 milligrams of caffeine per cup. Oolong provides average energy without jitters or crashes. Its antioxidants can protect the body and boost metabolism.
What is mate tea?
Mate tea is an herbal tea made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It is a popular beverage in several South American countries. The herbal tea contains caffeine and other nutrients like vitamin C. It has 85mg of caffeine per cup, which is less than coffee but more than black tea.
Some research suggests the tea may offer potential health benefits related to weight loss, heart health, inflammation, and cancer risk. However, more studies are needed to confirm these possible benefits.
The herbal tea has a strong, earthy flavor that some people describe as bitter or acquired taste. It is often served hot but can be enjoyed cold as well. Mate tea is traditionally consumed from a gourd using a special straw called a bombilla.
Effects of mate tea
The caffeine in the tea provides a gentle energizing effect. It may improve mood, mental focus and alertness. However, mate tea contains less caffeine than coffee so does not cause the strong "spike" associated with coffee drinking.
Most healthy adults can safely drink up to 1-2 liters of yerba mate tea per day. However, excessive caffeine intake should be avoided. People with certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant/nursing should use caution with the herbal tea or any caffeinated beverage.