On average, most people use 2-3 tablespoons per cup. However, some may use more or less depending on preference.
To make one cup, use 1-2 tablespoons per cup of water. Heat water to 160-180°F. Fill your cup two-thirds full with leaves. Shake gently to remove dust. Pour in heated water. Let steep 3-5 minutes before drinking.
The perfect water ratio impacts flavor and intensity.
A finer grind means more extraction into the water. Coarser grinds extract less.
The herbal tea has a unique flavor with hints of tobacco and oak. It has some health benefits. You can make it like tea using tea bags, a French press or brew it in bulk using a coffee maker.
To brew loose leaves, add 1-2 tablespoons per cup of water to a French press or strainer. Moisten with cool water first. Then add 170°F water. Let sit 2 minutes before pressing and pouring.
The leaves are used to make a tea called mate.
It has caffeine and gives energy. Some benefits are:
- it makes you less tired and sleepy.
- It has antioxidants that may help prevent diseases.
To prepare the South American drink:
- Fill a cup halfway with dry leaves.
- Add warm water and let sit 5 minutes.
- Insert a metal straw with holes that filters out leaves.
- Slowly sip the tea.
- Add more hot water as needed.
The herb seems adaptogenic, in a group of herbs known as adaptogens. I drink one–two liters, more when it’s iced. She said this might be excessive.
As a beginner, figuring intake is overwhelming.
But it has antioxidants and energizes naturally. I’ll guide understanding benefits, and right intake.
Locals drink one-four liters daily. I wouldn’t recommend that much, especially initially if unused to caffeine. Limit consumption as other teas.