Overview
Ilex paraguariensis is a plant found in South America. Its leaves are used to make a caffeinated drink. This beverage is known to provide an energy boost similar to espresso. However, yerba mate is neither a tea nor coffee.
The yerba mate plant is part of the holly genus species. It has adaptogenic properties to help regulate body systems. Its benefits are similar to nutrients in tea that promote calm. Ilex paraguariensis also shares properties with green tea, except for taste.
This South American plant has an earthy, bitter taste. It is often consumed from a gourd. Flavored versions like orange or lemon are also available. Branded yerba mates provide good value. For example, Cruz de Malta yerba mate is inexpensive. Yet, it can be steeped multiple times.
Availability
Ilex paraguariensis is a plant found in South America. Its leaves are used to make a caffeinated drink. This drink can be found in health food stores, specialty tea shops, grocery stores, and online.
Best Yerba Mate Tea
Yerba mate is an herbal tea commonly compared to green tea. What sets it apart is its distinct bitter yet subtly sweet taste. When brewed, the infusion is slightly yellow, clear, and elegant. Ilex paraguariensis provides naturally occurring caffeine for long-lasting energy. It also contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
The best yerba mate combines great flavor with responsible production, reasonable pricing, and ease of use. Those new to yerba mate may prefer a non-traditional blend with added flavors and fewer stems. Fans of green tea may enjoy a traditional yerba mate brew.
Comparison to Green Tea
Health Benefits
Ilex paraguariensis contains more caffeine than green tea, offering more fat burning and metabolism-boosting benefits. The higher caffeine levels also make yerba mate a more potent appetite-suppressant.
Yerba mate and green tea have been extensively studied. But which one is healthier? Ilex paraguariensis, grown in South America, and Camellia sinesis, from Asia and Africa, both need three years before first harvest. They share great potential.
Ilex paraguariensis provides a higher caffeine content, making it a great energy boost alternative. Incorporating both yerba mate and green tea can be a healthy choice.
Flavor
While green tea has an earthy, delicate flavor, yerba mate is more intense and bitter. The taste depends on variety, preparation method and added sweeteners.
Antioxidants
Both are packed with antioxidants linked to health benefits. However, studies show yerba mate has nearly twice the polyphenols of green tea. Polyphenols have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and neuroprotective effects.
Ilex paraguariensis also contains more vitamins and minerals than green tea. Overall, both offer benefits, but yerba mate has more antioxidants.