This South American drink is made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It contains caffeine and antioxidants. South Americans have safely drunk 1-4 liters per day for years. In North America and Europe, avid drinkers often drink 1-2 liters per day.
This tea has potential health benefits but also some risks if consumed in excess over long periods. It may help with weight loss, heart health, inflammation, and cancer risk. But overuse may increase cancer risk in the mouth, throat, kidneys, bladder, and lungs.
The flavor can be reused several times until it fades. Herbs like lemon verbena or burro can be added for flavor. Talk to your doctor before consuming this tea if you take medications or have health conditions. Avoid drinking large amounts for long periods without medical supervision.
This drink is more nutritious than coffee or tea because of its high nutrient content. But it contains about the same amount of caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2-3 cups per day, especially in the evening. While this tea has some potential benefits, more research on its long-term safety is needed. Moderation is key.
This South American tea has caffeine and antioxidants. Some research shows it may help cholesterol, weight loss, heart health, inflammation and cancer risk. But more studies are needed. It’s likely safe for healthy adults short-term. But there are concerns. Some links to cancer may exist since it’s usually drank very hot. This tea may damage the esophagus over time. The tea also contains compounds that may be carcinogenic. This tea is made by steeping the dried plant. This tea is often shared socially in South America. Avid drinkers may consume 1-2 liters daily.
This tea is made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis tree native to South America. It contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and caffeine.
The caffeine content is less than coffee but more than typical black or green tea. It may provide an energy boost and improve mental focus.
Some research suggests this tea may offer benefits for weight loss, heart health, inflammation, and cancer risk. However additional studies are needed to confirm these potential health effects.
Drinking this tea occasionally appears safe for healthy adults. But regularly drinking very hot this tea for a long time may increase the risk of certain cancers like esophageal cancer. This risk also goes up for people who smoke tobacco.
While more research is still needed, this tea shows promise as a potentially healthy herbal tea option with antioxidants and other plant compounds.
Pros
- Contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants
- Provides energizing caffeine
- Traditional South American drink
- Potential health benefits still being studied
Cons
- Caffeine can cause side effects for some
- Very hot temperature may increase cancer risk
- More research still needed on health effects
- Pregnant women should limit caffeine
In moderation, this drink can be an enjoyable, traditional drink that provides micronutrients, plant compounds, and energizing caffeine. But the health effects are complex. It likely has both benefits and risks that require more research. As with any stimulant, moderation is key.