The South American beverage is made from the dried leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It provides an energy boost similar to coffee, but with less caffeine. However, it contains more nutrients, including antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
It has been consumed for centuries by indigenous tribes who believed it provided rejuvenating effects. The tea contains xanthines like caffeine and theobromine, which give it stimulating properties. However, it does not cause the jitteriness or crash associated with coffee.
The drink promotes calmness and balanced energy. It shares many properties with green tea, like antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. But it is richer in nutrients overall.
Health Benefits
The tea has several science-backed health benefits:
- It can aid weight loss by reducing appetite and boosting metabolism. Studies show it may specifically target belly fat.
- It improves digestion and protects the liver and heart from disease due to its high antioxidant content.
- It enhances immunity, circulation, and cognition. The balanced caffeine provides mental focus without anxiety or insomnia.
Drinking the South American beverage is a social tradition in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil. The tea has spread across the world due to its flavor and health benefits.
Drinking large amounts for a long time increases the risk of some cancers, including esophagus, kidney, stomach, bladder, cervix, prostate, lung, larynx or mouth cancer. The drink contains 85 mg of caffeine per cup, between green tea and coffee.
The leaves contain xanthines like caffeine and antioxidants.
Some studies show a link between drinking hot tea and increased cancer risk. Proponents say it has health benefits, but more research is needed. Drinking it occasionally doesn’t cause diseases, but drinking it regularly for long periods may increase cancer risks.
The tea stimulates the mind and body without crashing or jittery effects. It provides antioxidants and stimulants with less caffeine than coffee.
- South Americans safely drink 1–4 liters daily.
- In U.S., Canada, Europe, drinkers consume at least 1–2 liters daily.
The best time to drink the tea is morning, after/during high protein, low carb meal.
The drink has adaptogenic properties to regulate the body’s systems.