Yerba mate leaves, native to South America and more particularly to Argentina, are known for their numerous health benefits! A stimulating and antioxidant drink, its virtues are well known. However, as with any food or drink, excessive consumption can lead to certain side effects or undesirable effects! Kusmi tells you more.
Where do yerba mate leaves come from?
Coming from a yerba mate tree or Ilex paraguariensis, mate leaves come straight from Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay (South America). Mate is prepared from dried and roasted leaves.
This traditional drink has an intense taste with a hint of bitterness that is much appreciated by the Amerindians. You can recognise it by its greenish colour.
Argentina is the largest producer and exporter of mate. It was coveted at the beginning of the 20th century, especially by Swiss intellectuals who thought that mate would become a world beverage, like coffee. Today, mate is an essential beverage in this part of the world because of its medicinal properties.
Yerba mate and its health benefits
This South American plant, containing caffeine, has been consumed for decades, particularly to combat fatigue. The European Medicines Agency has recognised mate as a diuretic and anti-fatigue agent.
It is true that traditional mate leaves have many benefits:
• It stimulates the body and helps to reduce fatigue due to its caffeine content
• It helps to fight against premature cell ageing due to its high antioxidant content
• Combined with regular sports activity and a healthy diet, it helps eliminate more easily and is an ally in weight loss
• It helps muscle recovery
What are the side effects of mate on health?
Yerba mate leaves contain caffeine, but also theobromine, which is found in cocoa trees. What does it do? This molecule spreads energy in a constant way, unlike coffee.
The side effects that can occur as a result of excessive mate consumption are actually caused by the caffeine. One cup of mate contains 70 mg of caffeine: less than coffee, but more than tea!
What is the maximum recommended intake of caffeine?
It depends on your health and age. It is between 200 and 400 mg per day. Each person has a different tolerance to this molecule. Ask your doctor for advice if you have any doubts or questions.
Side effects of caffeine
Like any energy drink containing caffeine, mate may cause certain side effects:
• irritability;
• palpitations;
• insomnia;
• headaches;
• anxiety;
• abdominal pain;
• poor iron absorption;
• yellow teeth...
Rest assured, the side effects of mate are rather rare! But they should be taken into account if you suffer from certain heart diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure or intestinal problems, for example. Interactions with certain medications can accentuate these side effects. It is advisable to ask your doctor's advice before mixing your treatment with certain plants, even natural ones.
Kusmi's recommendations for enjoying yerba mate
To drink mate safely, Kusmi advises you to :
• limit your consumption to 2 cups per day
• avoid consuming it during meals or just after meals, especially if you have anemia
Kusmi Tea, an organic yerba mate made in France
At Kusmi, we offer traditional and flavoured mate. All our products are made in Normandy, labelled organic in favour of sustainable and eco-responsible agriculture. Indulge yourself with our range of unique and original flavours of mate!
Consumed for generations by the Amerindian peoples, mate could have side effects, even if they are rather rare! The main cause is the presence of caffeine, known for its stimulating effect, but sometimes irritating for the body. To enjoy this energy drink, check out our range of organic mate with its exquisite and unique taste!
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