Where is yerba mate found?
The caffeinated, tea-like beverage is brewed from the leaves of a South American holly tree native to the forests of Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil. Indigenous peoples consumed the herbal drink for centuries as an energizing drink with medicinal properties before it spread across regions in the 16th century. Today, sharing yerba mate is a symbol of friendship and hospitality across borders. Although preparations vary, the culture of communal mate drinking connects people in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil. Aside from its unique flavor, yerba mate is also beneficial for health due to its high antioxidant content and nutrients such as caffeine, vitamins and minerals. The effects provide longer lasting energy without crashes. The herbal drink can also be found in teabags or blended with herbs like peppermint and citrus rinds to make flavored mate. This is often served sweetened, hot or iced in specialized shops. In Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil it’s commonly consumed for breakfast or afternoon tea with pastries.
Is the herbal drink better for you than energy drinks?
The tea-like beverage gives a different energy than coffee. It enhances focus more than coffee. Healthy adults who occasionally drink yerba mate likely won’t have risks. But some studies show people drinking large amounts for a long time may have higher cancer risks of the mouth, esophagus and lungs.
The caffeinated drink has 78mg caffeine per 8 oz. What you drink likely has more caffeine and less nutrition. As an adaptogen, yerba mate gives energy without destroying adrenals. It also aids gut health and brain stimulation. So the herbal drink "gives" while energy drinks "take."
The tea-like beverage provides a smooth increase in energy. Its effects are described as gentle, clean and calm. This may be because its caffeine releases more slowly.
Are guayaki yerba mate healthy?
Guayaki yerba mate is a nutritious South American tea made from the leaves and stems of the yerba mate plant. It contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, polyphenols and amino acids as well as caffeine. Guayaki yerba mate provides a number of potential health benefits including enhanced mental focus, increased energy and stamina, improved digestion and immunity. However, it’s important to consume yerba mate in moderation due to its caffeine content.
Why is yerba mate so expensive?
Yerba mate is a plant native to subtropical South America. It is mainly grown in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. The herbal drink was first used by indigenous people. It is traditionally consumed as a beverage called mate throughout central and southern South America.
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Drinking a lot of the tea-like beverage over a long period may increase cancer risk. Caffeine with ephedrine can also cause heart problems. However, modern production methods reduce risks.
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Sharing yerba mate is traditional in South American culture. People often gather in a circle and pass around a gourd filled with yerba mate. This ritual creates a sense of hospitality and connection.