Yerba mate is a tea made from the dried leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. This South American plant contains caffeine and antioxidants. The leaves are dried over a fire and steeped in hot water to make the infusion. Yerba mate grows in parts of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. The best tasting yerba mate comes from leaves grown in rainforest shade. When brewing mate, avoid using water hotter than 149°F (65°C) as very hot water may increase cancer risk from compounds in the leaves. Pregnant women should consult their doctor before drinking it due to the caffeine content. Drink yerba mate in moderation and be aware it can cause similar side effects as excessive caffeine intake.
Yerba mate is a traditional drink made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. The leaves of the yerba mate plant contain carcinogens also found in tobacco and grilled meat. In small amounts, this is not dangerous. It is not determined yet if drinking yerba while breastfeeding or pregnant is safe.
Yerba mate contains caffeine and can be addictive. The leaves are dried over a fire and infused in hot water to make a tea, which is sipped from a gourd using a metal straw. Drinking large amounts for long periods may increase cancer risk. Reactions vary – some say yerba mate gives them a natural high, makes them more open-minded and inspired, while others find it makes them sleepy. There are many brands of yerba mate with different flavors depending on region grown.
With four types and hundreds of brands, it’s hard to choose. I created a list of five must-try yerba mate brands that most people will enjoy.
Yerba mate is native to South America, where it’s incredibly popular. Taragui is one of the oldest yerba mate teas. With over a century of experience, this Argentinian company ensures high-quality mate. The taste is bitter, smoky with a scent of leather and a mildly acidic aftertaste.
Drinking very hot mate at 149°F (65°C) or warmer is connected to higher cancer risks, possibly due to PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) which are carcinogenic. High yerba mate intake may also cause caffeine overdose symptoms like migraines and insomnia. Pregnant women should consult doctors before drinking it since caffeine increases miscarriage and low birth weight risks.