This South American tea is made from the leaves of a holly tree. It contains caffeine and can cause side effects like insomnia, nervousness, nausea, and increased heart rate if consumed in large amounts or for a long time. The tea has a higher concentration of antioxidants than green tea and other drinks. It may help prevent oxidative stress and health problems. The tea is traditionally served hot in a container called a gourd and sipped through a metal straw. It can also be served cold, especially in hot weather.
The tea is consumed in South America to boost energy, mental alertness, and health. Studies show it may help fight cancer and other inflammatory diseases. The tea may also help reduce unhealthy cholesterol levels. It has a bitter taste that some consider an acquired taste. Both preparing and drinking the tea are considered almost ceremonial traditions in South American culture. People often gather socially to share it, passing around a gourd to create bonds between those gathered.
Is the South American tea good for gut?
It is produced from holly leaves from an evergreen plant that is native to only a few regions in South America. The best tasting mate comes from leaves that have been grown in the shade of the rainforest. When it has not been grown directly in the sun, its leaves are more flavorful and nutrient-rich.
The tea provides an energy boost similar to coffee, but with less caffeine and more nutrients. It was called “the drink of the gods” by indigenous South Americans and “the green gold of the Indios” by settlers. First, let’s take a look at the evidence-based mental and physical health benefits of the tea.
The tea is a rare herbal tea in that it’s one of the few plants that naturally produce caffeine. Whether making it hot or cold, it is a great herbal alternative to coffee.
Is the tea better for your stomach than coffee?
The tea provides energy similar to coffee, but with less caffeine and more nutrients.
- A cup of the tea has about 85mg caffeine; coffee 95mg. So it is more caffeinated than black tea, but less than coffee. Drinking the tea will give you some of the focus and mood benefits you get from coffee — but a bit less.
- Some consume mate as a healthier substitute for coffee. Coffee is typically more acidic. One health issue connected to coffee is gastroesophageal reflux disease, caused by acidity. This differs between mates. On the pH scale, coffee measures around 4.7; lemon juice 2.0; milk 6.5. The tea is less acidic than coffee.
- The caffeine in the tea may contribute differently than coffee. The tea contains compounds that balance caffeine’s effect. Also, coffee is more acidic than the tea.
- The tea will give the highest energy boost, with around 200mg caffeine per 50g leaves and 500ml water — double that of coffee.
- While coffee can lead to sleeplessness and jitters, the tea can energize without nervous reactions. This may be due to theophylline and theobromine in it.
- Overall, the tea provides a balanced, sustained energy boost. It’s less likely to cause jitters than coffee, offering a smoother release of energy. The tea is a healthier alternative to coffee.
Is it OK to drink the tea everyday?
The tea is an herb like mint or parsley. The earth has many consumable herbs we enjoy without hesitation.
The tea contains caffeine. A cup has less caffeine than coffee but more than tea. It also contains small amounts of vitamin C.
- South Americans safely drink 1-4 liters of the tea per day. In the U.S. and Europe, avid drinkers consume 1-2 liters per day. The amount you drink depends on your tolerance.
- You can reuse the tea 10-30 times until the flavor fades. It can be served hot or cold.
- The tea assists with weight loss by reducing appetite and fat cells. It may burn fat better than green tea due to higher caffeine.
- Drinking 1-2 liters daily for long periods increases cancer risk, especially if you smoke or drink alcohol. High doses may also increase caffeine side effects. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution.