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 Indian tribe in Paraguay was the first consumer of yerba mate. Today, this hot drink is appreciated all over the world for its multiple health benefits!
Yerba mate contains caffeine and theobromine, a molecule found in cocoa. The combination of these two components makes it a boost and detox drink at the same time. Drinking a cup of mate will give you the energy you need for your day. This in fact consists of:
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vitamins: A, C, E, B1 and B2 for energy and strengthening the immune system and defenses;
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minerals: magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, selenium, phosphorus;
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amino acids: isoleucine, methionine, tryptophan, contributing to the good balance of the body;
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polyphenols: having antioxidant effects!
The health benefits of yerba mate
Mate has many health benefits:
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Just like coffee, mate is rich in caffeine and is therefore a natural stimulant. It has energizing properties. Drinking a cup of yerba mate will give you a real boost in your day! From this point of view, yerba mate represents a very good alternative to tea or coffee.
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Mate is also rich in antioxidants (polyphenols). These molecules are very important for the proper functioning of our body and the maintenance of good health. They help to fight against the development of certain diseases but also premature aging of cells. They also help to strengthen the immune system.
Mate, good for digestion?
Yerba mate is also said to have beneficial effects on the stomach and digestion. Its regular consumption would:
- Digestive function : it would improve the secretion of gastric acid.
- Diuretic role : it would promote the evacuation of waste in the body.
- Slimming ally : it would help to burn fat better and regulate appetite.
Stomach aches: side effects of mate?
The risks of excessive consumption
Caffeinated just like coffee, mate can cause stomach upset when consumed excessively. Note that the recommended daily dose of caffeine is 300 mg. Knowing that a cup of mate contains 70 mg, it is recommended to limit your consumption to 4 cups per day. You will thus avoid possible side effects of mate, such as:
- nervousness, anxiety, agitation;
- insomnia;
- increased heart rate;
- soreness, burning and stomach aches, diarrhea.
Focus on theine and caffeine
Did you know that theine and caffeine actually come from the same molecule? And yes! However, they have different effects on the body. Caffeine, contained mainly in coffee, is available immediately and provides a burst of energy after consumption. Theine, for its part, is released more gradually in the body throughout the day. This is why we say that coffee is a stimulant while tea belongs to the family of stimulants.
Kusmi Tea, an organic mate made in Normandy
Kusmi offers a quality organic mate made in Normandy, from organic farming. Discover our mate blends based on natural ingredients selected by our experts. Mixed with green tea, nettle or citrus fruits, mate reveals a powerful flavor accompanied by a dose of freshness.
How to properly prepare yerba mate?
You need a bombilla, a gourd and a few organic mate leaves. Heat water in a kettle but do not exceed the temperature of 80°C otherwise you risk damaging the leaves and not enjoying all the benefits! Indeed, if the water is too hot it risks giving a bitter taste to your drink. Place the mate leaves on one side at the bottom of your calabash. Place your bombilla on the other side. Pour the hot water into it. Leave to infuse for between 5 and 10 minutes depending on your tastes. The infusion time depends on your tastes ! A long infusion will give a full-bodied and strong drink in the mouth while a faster infusion will give a softer and lighter mate. Enjoy!
Mate can improve your digestion, as long as you don't overdo it. Consumed in excess of the recommended amount, this drink can cause digestive discomfort just like coffee. It's all a question of moderation! But you will have understood, this drink does not lack benefits!