What is caffeine? What are its effects?
Discovered in 1819 by a German chemist, caffeine is a nitrogen-based molecule (known as an “alkaloid”) that acts as a stimulant on the body. It was named caffeine because it was first discovered in coffee. This same molecule is found in tea, where it is known as theine. Acting as a natural insecticide in plants, its effects on humans are fortunately different: it temporarily reduces drowsiness and improves focus. The difference between coffee and tea comes from the fact that coffee contains much more of it: 3 to 4 times more than a cup of tea. This explains the spike of alertness from coffee, followed by a “crash” about two hours later. Meanwhile, tea is considered a stimulant that acts more gently and provides a longer-lasting effect.
Is caffeine found in yerba maté?
Indeed, it is. Its plant, known as Yerba maté, contains a good amount of caffeine in its leaves (estimated at 1%). This is enough for its consumption to act on our brain system, boosting alertness and helping to fight off drowsiness.
Is maté an excitant?
No, it is rather considered a natural energiser. Maté can be enjoyed in the morning or before a workout for a little boost. Does maté keep you awake? The answer is “it depends”. Just like with tea or coffee, the impact of caffeine on sleep depends on individual sensitivity.
What is the energising effect of maté compared to coffee?
On average, maté contains less caffeine than coffee. Its effect on the body will therefore be slightly milder. Estimates vary depending on how hot drinks are prepared. However, please note that the caffeine level varies from one tea to another depending on its specific growing conditions (the harvest season of the leaves and their bud content). Furthermore, everyone reacts differently to caffeine. One cannot therefore assume the caffeine level of one tea compared to another.
How to measure maté for the desired effect?
You can do the same as with coffee or tea: adjust the strength and concentration by adding water or using fewer maté leaves, depending on your taste and the desired effect. In this way, by discarding the first infusion and adding fresh water, you can decaffeinate tea. You can do the same with maté, making its leaves less concentrated in caffeine during the second brew.
Our tips for properly preparing yerba maté
Preparing yerba maté is a true art. To do this, you will need a calabash gourd, a bombilla, and a few maté leaves (preferably organic).
1- Fill ¾ of the calabash gourd with maté leaves.
2- Heat water in a kettle, making sure not to exceed 80°C in order to preserve the leaves.
3- Tilt the calabash gourd so that the leaves settle on one side.
4- Pour the hot water into the empty space of the gourd.
5- The brewing time varies according to your taste and the flavour you wish to give your drink. The recommended time is generally between 5 and 10 minutes. Purists will prefer a longer infusion time to obtain a full-bodied brew.
6- Enjoy your drink using a bombilla (maté straw).
7- You can re-infuse the leaves several times throughout the day.
Yerba maté is a drink packed with health benefits. Prepared traditionally, it will give you the energy you need for your day thanks to its caffeine content. Both stimulating and energising, it makes an excellent alternative to tea or coffee. Discover Kusmi Tea maté-based blends! Delicious organic products.