Mate is a species of the holly genus, native to parts of South America. The leaves are used to make a bitter, caffeinated drink called mate. It has a complex flavor and is often consumed socially.
The health effects of mate are like black tea. It may provide benefits for fatigue, inflammation, cholesterol, and more, but high intake over long periods may increase disease risk. Moderate consumption appears safe.
South Americans may drink 1-4 liters of mate per day. Elsewhere, intake commonly reaches 1-2 liters. Consuming high amounts for long periods requires caution. Moderation is advised.
The best time to enjoy mate is morning or early afternoon. Drinking it late can disrupt sleep due to the caffeine. Those sensitive to caffeine should be careful regarding timing and quantity.
Can you drink mate at night?
Mate contains caffeine, which can interfere with sleep. The last cup should be 4 to 6 hours before bed, allowing your body to metabolize the caffeine. Mate is from the holly genus Ilex paraguariensis used to make the beverage called mate.
What are the rules for drinking mate?
- Meeting in nature is part of the tradition and ritual of drinking mate.
- Several people share one gourd with one metal straw.
- Like coffee and tea in America, mate is commonly consumed in the morning.
- However, South Americans can drink mate all day long, from morning to evening.
How long does mate caffeine last?
With 85mg of caffeine per cup, mate contains less caffeine than coffee but more than tea. Like any caffeinated drink, it may increase energy. Caffeine generally wears off in four to six hours.
- Moderation is always wise. Mate has about 80mg caffeine per cup – almost twice black tea but less than half coffee.
The caffeine and antioxidants in mate can maintain alertness and sleep cycle balance. It can be consumed anytime.
Switching from coffee to mate, or replacing some coffee with it, is common today. Mate provides stimulation without causing jitters or eventual crash some coffee drinkers experience. Mate is considered to have adaptogenic properties that help regulate bodily systems.