It’s an herb, like oregano, mint and parsley. South Americans safely drink 1–4 liters of it per day. In North America and Europe, it’s common for drinkers to consume 1–2 liters per day. The recommended amount is around 3-4 cups. As an herb, it appears to be an adaptogen. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, polyphenols and saponins. Too much of anything is rarely good. You may worry about cancer links but evidence is contested.
It is consumed as a drink called mate which is prepared by steeping the leaves in hot water.
It is rich in antioxidants and nutrients such as xanthines, which act as stimulants. It provides an energy boost similar to coffee, but with less caffeine.
The most common types are the green dried powder and the green dried loose leaf. The powder has an intense flavor and is prepared using a special straw with a filter called a bombilla. The loose leaf has a lighter flavor and can be used for making blends.
When preparing mate, use 1-2 tablespoons per 6-8 ounces of water. Avoid boiling water, instead allow water to cool slightly after boiling. Steep for 3-5 minutes. You can reuse the same leaves several times per day.
Drinking 2-3 mate beverages per day provides both energy-boosting and health benefits. However, avoid drinking mate in the evening, especially if you are sensitive to caffeine.
- Use 2-3 tablespoons per cup. The amount depends on strength, cup size, and taste. Some people may use more or less. Personal preference plays a role in the amount per cup.
- It contains antioxidants and vitamins supporting well-being. It holds cultural significance in South America, often shared among friends.
- Avoid constant consumption; 2-3 drinks at most per day. Avoid evening consumption if caffeine-sensitive.
- Different people have preferences from 1-2 tablespoons per cup, in both larger and smaller cups. Test ratios to find what works best.
- Seasoned drinkers reuse leaves several times a day! As an herb, it contains a powerhouse of nutrients.
It contains less caffeine than coffee, but it still provides a boost in energy levels. It has a diuretic and slightly laxative effect. It is hard to specify the caffeine content in just 2 tablespoons. But a typical serving with 1-2 tablespoons contains around 30-80mg.
The notable differences between it and green tea are in taste, steep time and health benefits. It has a stronger, earthier flavor and needs to steep longer. It provides a stronger energy boost. Both teas are high in antioxidants, but it contains more chlorogenic acid.
Many report it feels different than coffee due to other xanthines like theobromine. It provides stimulation and mental alertness without an energy crash.
Too much may not be good. But the evidence on cancer risk is contested. It’s best to drink it in moderation – 2-3 cups at most per day, avoiding evening consumption.