Is this tea FDA approved?
This South American tea is made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis tree native to that region. It has been consumed in South America for centuries as a social and medicinal drink. This beverage contains compounds like polyphenols and caffeine that may provide health benefits, but research is limited.
Some research links this tea to improved heart health, brain stimulation, decreased cholesterol and more, while other studies find no effect. The caffeine in it may boost energy without causing nervousness like coffee for some people.
However, it is often consumed at very hot temperatures in its native countries. This seems to increase the risk of cancers of the throat and esophagus for frequent, high-volume drinkers. More research is needed to conclusively determine cancer risk.
Like coffee, this tea’s stimulant effects come from caffeine. This can cause complications for those with conditions like hypertension or heart disease. Pregnant women should use caution as well.
The preparation of this South American tea is considered almost ceremonial in some parts of that region. Friends gather to drink it socially. The traditions surrounding the drink are an important part of culture.
This tea has increased in popularity in the United States recently. It’s available in mainstream grocery stores and used by groups like Crossfitters or Paleo dieters. Risks like addiction are similar to drinking coffee regularly.
Is there anything bad about this South American tea?
This tea is made from the leaves of a South American holly plant. It contains caffeine and antioxidants. Some research shows it may have health benefits. Other studies link it to increased cancer risk. This may be due to a drying process that produces carcinogens. Moderate intake is likely safe. Excessive intake may cause side effects like insomnia. Avoid very hot temperatures, as this further increases cancer risk. Pregnant women can likely drink 1-2 cups per day safely. This beverage is traditionally sipped from a gourd with a metal straw. It remains popular for social gatherings in South America. Research is still needed on its long-term health impact.
Although some research showed anticarcinogenic properties, other research showed a potential link between this tea and cancers of the throat and mouth, especially when consumed at high temperatures. Further research is necessary.
For some people with hypertension, heart disease, or arrhythmias, caffeinated drinks like this tea may increase complications.
This tea is rapidly spreading to the US. In Buenos Aires drinkers are rarely obese. Called the “Drink of the Gods”, it is a stimulant. It has been widely consumed in South America for centuries as a social and medicinal beverage. Some believe it protects the liver and heart but more research is needed. Both the preparation and drinking process are ceremonial. This South American tea is full of beneficial compounds.
I brought 60 gourds to drink this tea from in my suitcase when I returned to New York from South America in 2012. Going through customs, I explained they were cups to drink this tea that I planned to share.
One cup contains about 80 milligrams of caffeine, comparable to coffee. Many drinkers report an energy boost without nervousness sometimes caused by coffee. However, research has not confirmed this benefit.
This tea can be served hot or cold. Research suggests it may have beneficial effects on cholesterol, weight loss, heart health, inflammation and cancer risk, but more studies are needed.