The composition of yerba mate
Where does yerba mate come from?
Yerba mate leaves come from a shrub belonging to the Aquifoliaceae (holly) family found in South America, in Argentina. The Guarani indigenous people in Paraguay were the first to consume yerba mate. Today, this hot drink is enjoyed worldwide for its numerous health benefits!
Yerba mate contains caffeine and theobromine, a compound also found in cocoa. The combination of these two components makes it both an energy boost and a detox drink. Drinking a cup of mate will provide you with the energy you need for your day. It contains:
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vitamins: A, C, E, B1 and B2 for energy and to strengthen the immune system and natural defences;
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minerals: magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, selenium, phosphorus;
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amino acids: isoleucine, methionine, tryptophan, contributing to the body’s overall balance;
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polyphenols: providing antioxidant effects!
The health benefits of yerba mate
Mate offers numerous health benefits:
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Just like coffee, mate is rich in caffeine and is therefore a natural stimulant. It has energising properties. Drinking a cup of yerba mate will give you a real boost throughout your day! From this perspective, yerba mate is a great alternative to tea or coffee.
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Mate is also rich in antioxidants (polyphenols). These molecules are essential for the proper functioning of our bodies and maintaining good health. They help fight the development of certain diseases as well as premature cellular ageing. They also help strengthen the immune system.
Is mate good for digestion?
Yerba mate is also believed to have beneficial effects on the stomach and digestion. Regular consumption may help to:
- Digestive function: it is believed to help improve gastric acid secretion.
- Diuretic role: it is thought to promote the elimination of waste from the body.
- Slimming ally: it is thought to help burn fat more effectively and regulate appetite.
Stomach upset: side effects of mate?
The risks of excessive consumption
Containing caffeine just like coffee, mate can cause stomach upset when consumed in excess. Please note that the recommended daily intake of caffeine is 300 mg. Given that a cup of mate contains 70 mg, it is recommended to limit your consumption to 4 cups a day. This will help you avoid potential side effects of mate, such as:
- nervousness, anxiety, restlessness;
- insomnia;
- increased heart rate;
- heartburn, stomach ache, acid indigestion, diarrhoea.
A closer look at theine and caffeine
Did you know that theine and caffeine actually come from the same molecule? They certainly do! However, they have different effects on the body. Caffeine, found mainly in coffee, is available immediately and provides a quick burst of energy after consumption. Theine, on the other hand, is released more gradually into the body throughout the day. This is why coffee is often described as an excitant, while tea belongs to the family of stimulants.
Kusmi Tea, organic mate & made in Normandy
Kusmi offers premium organic mate made in Normandy, sourced from organic farming. Discover our mate blends made with natural ingredients selected by our experts. Blended with green tea, nettle or citrus fruits, mate reveals a powerful flavour complemented by a touch of freshness.
How to brew yerba mate properly?
You will need a bombilla, a gourd and some organic mate leaves. Heat water in a kettle, but do not exceed 80°C to avoid damaging the leaves and losing their benefits! If the water is too hot, it may give your drink a bitter taste. Place the mate leaves to one side at the bottom of your gourd. Place your bombilla on the other side. Pour in the hot water. Leave to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes depending on your taste. The brewing time depends on your preference! A longer brew will yield a full-bodied, robust drink, whilst a shorter brew will produce a milder, lighter mate. Enjoy!
Mate can improve your digestion, provided it is not consumed in excess. When taken beyond the recommended amount, this drink may cause digestive discomfort just like coffee. It is all a matter of moderation! But as you can see, this drink is packed with benefits!