The maté is a tea with higher caffeine than green tea but lower than coffee. 12 cups a day may cause side effects.
In moderation, it is safe and linked to benefits like increased metabolism and antioxidant activity. There are some concerns about maté’s association with certain cancers when consumed in very high amounts over long periods, but more research is still needed.
Compared to coffee, some find the maté less likely to cause jitters or anxiety thanks to its L-theanine. Its versatility allows consumption hot, cold, plain, or with mix-ins. You can purchase it loose leaf or in tea bags.
Some benefits of responsible consumption may include:
- Increased metabolism and possible weight loss
- More antioxidants than green tea
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation
- Increased mental clarity
When choosing a brand, factors like sustainability and ease of preparation are important alongside any benefits. Moderation and avoiding high heat seem prudent with most teas, including this one.
The maté is an ancient South American drink from the Ilex paraguariensis plant. The indigenous Guarani and Tupi first cultivated it in Paraguay. 90% of Argentinian households ingest it. Surveys show the maté is the top Argentinian identity symbol.
The maté comes sweetened, flavored, loose-leaf, and canned. Indigenous forest peoples relied on it for stamina. It became the national drinks of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Southern Brazil, preferred 6 to 1 over coffee.
I’m from Southern Brazil where the maté is common. Our customs resemble Argentina and Uruguay more than the rest of Brazil. We inherited drinking it. Indigenous people ingested the Ilex Paraguariensis tea for stamina.
The peculiar straw-gourd device optimizes delivery. You don’t need special gear. Just avoid boiling water. Drink it hot or cold.
The maté has fat burning effects. Long-term heavy consumption may increase cancer risk from hot temperatures or drying carcinogens.
Origins contain folklore of an herb "from the gods." It aided agriculture, nomads, and warriors. They also used it medicinally.
The maté is traditionally consumed in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil. It is prepared by steeping dried leaves in hot water and drinking from a gourd.
Today Argentinians drink the maté both hot and cold, often mixing it with fruit juice. Sharing it is a social custom that forges connections. The yerba mate brand Cruz de Malta is considered the best by many South Americans.
In recent years, the maté has grown popular worldwide. It contains polyphenols, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Studies suggest benefits like weight loss and cancer prevention.
Popular brands include Guayaki and Cruz De Malta. Guayaki appeals more to moderate drinkers with its smoother flavor while Cruz De Malta offers a bolder taste. The best depends on preference.
The maté is a traditional South American drink made from the Ilex paraguariensis plant leaves. It has a distinctive, earthy flavor and contains caffeine.
In South America, drinking the maté is a popular social ritual. Friends spend time chatting while passing a shared gourd filled with it. The drink is consumed for its health benefits. Unlike coffee, it provides sustained energy without crashes.
While the maté is growing popular worldwide, it remains a daily staple in South American culture. From young to old, it can be found everywhere – friends at the beach or grandmothers waiting for the bus.