What is this tea?
This herbal infusion is made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis holly plant grown in South America. It has a strong, bitter taste similar to green tea. The beverage contains vitamins A, B, C, E, and minerals like calcium and iron. It also has caffeine and polyphenols with potential health benefits.
The infusion can be prepared as a hot tea or iced tea. Popular drinks are lattes with milk and sweeteners or kombucha for the probiotics.
Possible side effects
Consuming large amounts (over 12 cups) daily might cause headaches, anxiety, irregular heartbeats. The heat may increase cancer risk from contaminants.
Compared to coffee, this has less caffeine but more than green tea. People sensitive to coffee can usually tolerate it.
Cultural significance
Drinking it is a popular social tradition in parts of South America like Argentina, where people consume it in the morning or evening. Sharing the ritual connects people to their roots.
To prepare it, the dried leaves are placed in a hollow gourd and steeped with hot water. A metal straw with a filter strainer called a bombilla is used to sip the infusion.
What does this South American tea do to your brain?
Overview
This is a plant that grows in South America. It is often shared socially between family and friends. It contains caffeine, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It gives an energy boost similar to coffee. It has more nutrients than coffee or tea.
Benefits
- It helps fight aging
- Boosts metabolism
- Provides healthy stimulation
- Increases endurance for exercise
Caffeine content
The caffeine content is less than coffee but more than tea. The energy boost is more subtle and lasts longer than energy drinks. It is not addictive like coffee.
Other effects
It connects people to their surroundings. It is not known to be bad for kidneys in most adults.
Is drinking a lot of this tea bad for you?
Nutrients
It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It has health benefits but side effects are possible with high consumption.
Possible side effects
Headaches, anxiety, insomnia and increased blood pressure may occur in some people.
Caffeine and cancer
The caffeine content is higher than green tea but less than coffee. Studies on cancer risk are unclear. Moderate consumption is likely safe.
How long do the effects last?
This tea contains caffeine and other stimulants that provide an energy boost. The effects tend to last around 90 minutes after consumption. However, the exact duration depends on factors like serving size and individual caffeine sensitivity. Overdoing it can cause side effects like insomnia, headaches, and nervousness in some people. It’s best to start with a moderate intake until you find the right amount for your needs.