A traditional South American drink, yerba mate (pronounced yuh·buh ma·tay) is a one-of-a-kind drink that contains the caffeine strength of coffee, the health benefits of tea and also the joy of chocolate.
Healthline explains that the drink is made from the leaves and stems of the Ilex paraguariensis plant which is dried over a fire, then steeped in hot water to make the tea. The drink is traditionally consumed from a container called a gourd and sipped with a metal straw. The metal straw has a filter at the bottom to strain out all the leaf fragments.
If you are interested in trying this drink, read more about the health benefits as explained by Healthline.
Rich in antioxidants and nutrients
Yerba mate contains many beneficial plant compounds, including xanthines, caffeoyl derivatives, saponins and polyphenols. Older studies have also revealed that the tea’s antioxidant power is similar to that of green tea.
The tea also contains other beneficial micronutrients, including vitamin C, thiamine, riboflavin, and vitamin B6. It provides some potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, and iron too.
Can increase energy levels and improve mental focus
Yerba mate contains almost the same amount of caffeine found in coffee (80 milligrams.) Thus, it may increase energy levels and make you less tired just like any other caffeinated food or beverage… just with added benefits.
Caffeine can also have an effect on the levels of certain signalling molecules in your brain. Therefore, the caffeine found in the tea makes it particularly beneficial for your mental focus.
May protect against infections
The tea may have a few anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic, and anti-fungal properties. However, more research on humans needs to be done for clearer results.
Helps lower blood sugar levels
Apart from helping lower blood sugar levels, yerba mate may also reduce complications associated with diabetes. Although a 2011 study found that 330 millilitres of yerba mate consumed three times daily resulted in lower levels of fasting blood sugar and haemoglobin A1c, more human research is needed.
Also see: Blood type diet explained
