The tea is an herb native to South America. It is used to make a popular drink in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Southern Brazil. In fact, yerba mate is consumed 6 times more than coffee in these countries. The beverage grows on a tree called Ilex Paraguariensis. It has a productive life of up to 100 years. After being dried, ground and packed, the leaves are purchased in countries like Argentina and Brazil.
Overview
The tea is prepared with the leaves of the yerba mate tree. It has plenty of antioxidants and contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Some claim it helps with weight loss and gut health when used regularly.
Yerba mate tastes unique and can be mixed into various cocktails. Combine it with vodka and lime, rum and mint, or just lemonade. You can even make yerba mate popsicles for a refreshing summer treat.
While similar to tea, yerba mate is technically not a tea. It comes from a different plant and has a distinct flavor. Yes, it contains caffeine, although amounts vary. Incorporating yerba mate can boost energy, support digestion and immunity.
Is yerba mate actually good for you?
The tea is made from the leaves of a South American plant. It has many potential health benefits but more research is needed.
Potential Benefits
Yerba mate contains beneficial nutrients like antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins. It may help boost immunity, promote healthy weight loss, increase energy, improve heart health, and support digestion. The tea has a strong, bitter taste that some enjoy and others do not.
Caffeine and Side Effects
Yerba mate has a moderate caffeine content, higher than green tea but less than coffee. This moderately stimulates the nervous system. For some, this can cause side effects like insomnia, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety. Pregnant women should limit caffeine intake.
More Research Needed
While there is promising research on yerba mate, many studies have been small or done on animals. More data is needed, especially on long-term human consumption, to confirm all its proposed health effects. Moderately incorporating yerba mate along with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle can be beneficial, but excessive intake may cause problems.