The tea is a species of the holly genus (Ilex), with the botanical name Ilex paraguariensis. It is used to make a beverage called mate. When served cold, the drink is called tereré in Guaraní. The tea is traditionally consumed in central and southern regions of South America, primarily in Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, southern and central-western Brazil, the Chaco region of Bolivia and southern Chile. It is also popular in the Druze community in Syria and Lebanon, where it is imported from Argentina. The beverage was first cultivated and used by the indigenous Guaraní people and some Tupí communities in southern Brazil, before European colonization.
The tea contains antioxidants, nutrients, and stimulants. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can strengthen the immune system and promote health. Drinking it provides a boost of energy. It has more nutrients and less caffeine than coffee. The beverage is traditionally drank from a gourd through a metal straw. This style of drinking it is seen as a sign of friendship. The tea is popular in places like Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina. It is gaining popularity in the United States.
When prepared right, it can have a delicious, creamy flavor. The Uruguayan style highlights the flavor. Their version contains small leaves and powder without stems. This allows for a richer, more full-bodied drink compared to other preparations.
Drinking the tea may help you fight illness. It can inhibit bacteria growth. Its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects support the immune system. A daily cup assists the body in staying healthy during cold season and preventing disease.
The healthy energizing effects make it better than coffee or caffeine drinks. It steadily increases energy without negative side effects like anxiety or crashes. Most people find this clean stimulation more enjoyable. The tea offers lasting energy that leaves you feeling good.
The tea leaves contain compounds that may be linked to its antiviral effect. The ethyl acetate fraction of the tea is the most active against HSV-1 and HSV-2. It exhibits this antiviral activity at noncytotoxic concentrations.
Ilex paraguariensis contains polyphenols and quercetin-3-β. Quercetin-3-β is an anti-inflammatory agent with antimicrobial properties against salmonella enteritis. Salmonella enteritis causes stomach ailments and diarrhea from contaminated foods and water.
The tea can inhibit enzymes responsible for breaking down healthy tissue cells. This may help treat skin conditions like dandruff, rashes, and dryness.
Our favorite brands combine flavor, responsible production, reasonable pricing, and ease of use. The beverage is traditionally served in a container called a calabash or gourd. It’s commonly sipped through a metal straw with a filter.
The tea possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering properties that may protect against heart disease. It can be prepared as a tea or added to foods and supplements. The beverage is bitter and an acquired taste to many.
Aqueous extract possesses inhibitory activity against Malassezia furfur. This fungus causes pityriasis versicolor, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis. Research shows consumption improves bone density in postmenopausal women.
Some benefits include stimulating the brain, protecting the liver, decreasing cholesterol, and protecting the heart. It contains flavonoids and saponins with anti-inflammatory effects that protect against disease. It exhibits a unique taste that must be tried to fully understand.
The plant is native to South America. Its leaves are used to make tea. The tea contains caffeine and antioxidants. It has potential health benefits but high intake over long periods may increase cancer risk. The cancer risk is higher for people who smoke or drink alcohol. Pregnant women, people with heart conditions or anxiety should avoid it or limit intake. The tea is not recommended before bedtime as it can cause sleep issues. It has a bitter, earthy flavor. Most people drink 1-2 cups per day. It can be served hot or cold. The beverage is traditionally consumed from a gourd with a filtered straw.