Where do yerba maté leaves come from?
Harvested from the yerba maté tree, or Ilex paraguariensis, maté leaves come directly from Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay (South America). Maté is prepared from dried and roasted leaves.
This traditional beverage offers an intense taste with a hint of bitterness that was greatly appreciated by indigenous peoples. You can recognise it by its greenish colour.
Argentina is the largest producer and exporter of maté. It attracted great interest at the beginning of the 20th century, notably among Swiss intellectuals who believed that maté would become a global beverage, much like coffee. Today, maté is an essential drink in this part of the world thanks to its medicinal properties.
This plant, renowned for its energising and antioxidant properties, is increasingly enjoyed around the world. However, like any drink containing stimulating substances, it is important to adhere to a recommended daily amount.
What are the health side effects of maté?
Studies have shown that yerba maté contains caffeine as well as theobromine, two substances that can cause side effects if consumed in excess. These effects include irritability, insomnia, and palpitations, particularly in cases of heightened sensitivity to caffeine.
Yerba maté leaves contain caffeine, but also theobromine, which is found in cocoa trees. What does it do? This molecule releases energy steadily, unlike coffee.
The side effects that may occur from excessive consumption of maté actually stem from caffeine. Indeed, a cup of maté contains 70 mg of caffeine: less than coffee, but more than tea!
What is the recommended maximum caffeine intake?
It depends on each individual's health and age. It is typically between 200 and 400 mg per day. Everyone has a different tolerance to this molecule. Seek your doctor's reviews if you have any doubts or questions.
The side effects of caffeine in maté
Like any energising beverage containing caffeine, maté may cause certain side effects:
- irritability;
- palpitations;
- insomnia;
- headaches;
- anxiety;
- abdominal pain;
- poor iron absorption;
- yellow teeth…
Rest assured, the adverse effects of maté are rather rare! However, they should be taken into account if you suffer from certain heart conditions, diabetes, high blood pressure, or intestinal issues, for example. Interactions with certain medications can exacerbate these side effects. It is advisable to seek your doctor's reviews before combining your treatment with certain plants, even natural ones.
Kusmi's recommendations for enjoying yerba maté
To enjoy maté safely and with total peace of mind, Kusmi advises you to:
- limit your consumption to 2 cups per day
- avoid consuming it during meals or immediately after eating, especially if you suffer from anaemia
Kusmi Tea, organic yerba maté made in France
At Kusmi, we offer traditional and flavoured maté. All our products are made in Normandy and certified organic in support of sustainable, eco-friendly agriculture. Treat yourself to our ranges of maté with unique and original flavours!
Consumed for generations by indigenous peoples of the Americas, maté may cause side effects, although they are rather rare! Their primary cause is believed to be the presence of caffeine, known for its stimulating effect, but which can sometimes irritate the body. To enjoy this energising beverage, discover our organic maté ranges with their exquisite, unique taste!