Yerba mate tea is made from the mate herb, also known as congonha, which originates from the subtropical region of South America. Its scientific name is Ilex paraguariensis, and it is widely cultivated in the South of Brazil, as well as Argentina, Uruguay, and neighboring southern countries. The parts of the plant used are the leaves and stems, and mate tea possesses properties that provide benefits to those who drink it in moderation.
Benefits of Yerba Mate Tea
Mate tea is rich in vitamins and minerals such as: calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, vitamin A, B complex vitamins, vitamins C and E. It is believed that its properties include being a stimulant, antioxidant, aphrodisiac, diuretic, and even laxative due to its alkaloids like caffeine, theophylline, saponin, and folic acid. As a result, one of the main benefits of yerba mate is providing a reduction in cholesterol levels. On the other hand, the tea can offer protection against heart and liver diseases, and help prevent premature aging and other degenerative diseases because it fights free radicals. Digestion is also improved by drinking mate tea.
Other Indications
Mate tea has a stimulating effect on the brain similar to caffeine, increases metabolism and, therefore, helps with weight loss, as it decreases the absorption of excess fat. Besides all this, other benefits of mate include:
- Treatment of cellulite;
- Prevention of various types of cancer;
- Reduction of injuries to blood vessel walls caused by atherosclerosis;
- Improvement in glucose and fat metabolism.
Mate tea can be found in various forms and brands, always with the same benefits: as chimarrão, Chá Mate Leão, yerba mate, and tereré. However, in ready-to-drink products, you may face the downsides of added sugar and preservatives.
How to Prepare Yerba Mate Tea
Mate is a tea that can be consumed hot or cold, and even mixed with lemon juice — this is the famous lemon mate tea found on Rio de Janeiro’s beaches. To prepare mate tea, you need to use 1 teaspoon of the herb for each cup of almost boiling water. You may let it cool or chill in the fridge, strain it, and add sugar or not. In chimarrão, special gourds with “bombas” (see photo) are used — these are ornate silver straws with a filter on the bottom; to drink the tea. In this case, you do not need to strain it, the herb is placed in the gourd leaving about one third of space free on one side, where the hot water is added. The water can be refilled as you drink the tea from the gourd.Fehler! Linkverweis ungültig.
Where to Find Yerba Mate Tea
Yerba mate tea can be found in supermarkets, pharmacies, and natural product stores, depending on availability and local culture. It is sold as dried leaves, in tea bags, or even in powder form.
Is Yerba Mate Tea Bad for You?
When used in small amounts per day, mate tea is not harmful. However, for those not accustomed, you should not drink several cups a day, especially in cases of hypertension, as the caffeine can raise blood pressure.
Risks
If associated with alcoholism or smoking, mate tea can increase problems and disease risk. It is also not recommended to overuse the tea if you have anxiety disorders, due to sensitivity to caffeine. People with bleeding disorders and diabetes should consult a doctor before starting to use yerba mate, as blood clotting and blood glucose control can be impaired by the herb. Finally, for any disease that reacts poorly to caffeine, such as gastritis, use of the tea may be contraindicated.
Daily Consumption
The maximum safe daily intake of caffeine is up to 300 mg per day, according to some studies. This is about two to three cups of mate tea per day.
Contraindications of Yerba Mate Tea
Mate tea is contraindicated for patients with cardiovascular problems, pregnant or breastfeeding women, among other considerations. Babies may develop a certain addiction to caffeine and experience withdrawal after breastfeeding, if caffeinated drinks are part of the mother’s diet. See Also: Question: Can You Give Tea to Newborns? Photo: Gonzalo Rivero Gorivero
