YERBA MATE: Not Your Ordinary Tea.
My first taste of Yerba Mate (yer-bah mah-tay) was experienced while visiting a coffee shop. This particular day I wanted to try something different than my usual varieties of green and/or herbal teas. I had only heard of this tea before and friends would express how great it was. Being an avid tea drinker, I was surprised I had not tried it sooner. The barista recommended a fruity yerba mate tea he created. I thought the taste was amazing and soothing. My first try and I was sold. I would describe it as a very light smoky flavor. As I began to learn about the great qualities of Mate tea I learned that if steeped properly, doesn’t have the bitterness or bite that green teas may have.
What is Yerba Mate?
Yerba mate (also known, as Mate tea) is a subtropical tea made from a native plant of South America. The leaves are sheltered from sunlight and grown in shaded areas of the rainforest. This process allows more flavors to Mate tea and a unique taste. I like to think of Yerba Mate as a cross between a black tea and green tea infused. In some countries, Mate tea is highly consumed and a tradition of friendship and bonding. Yerba Mate is described as having the “strength of coffee, the health benefits of tea, and the euphoria of chocolate" all in one beverage.
Health Benefits
Not only is Mate tea popular in many parts of the world, this tea is unique because of its many beneficial qualities. Yerba Mate is packed with vitamins, minerals, and 15 amino acids. Mate tea includes vitamins A, C, B1 and B2 vitamins just to name a few. Studies show that high amounts of minerals such as, K, MG and MN are also contained in Mate. In addition, Yerba Mate has significant amounts of antioxidants and polyphenols.
Energy Boost
Yerba Mat provides a gentle increase in energy, alertness and decrease in mental fatigue. Although Yerba Mate tea provides a gentle and gradual energy boost, it does not have the same adverse effects of coffee. In fact, studies have shown that unlike coffee, Mate tea may help regulate better sleep patterns due to a special type of xanthine called “Mateine”. Only a trace of this substance is shown in Mate tea and would take large consumption to feel the large effects of caffeine.
Heart Health
Studies have shown that Yerba Mate tea can increase the supply of oxygen and nutrients required by your heart for proper growth and repair. There have also been reports that Mate tea aids in cardiovascular health by increasing oxygen to the heart. Additional reports show that Yerba Mate can help decrease cholesterol levels.
Side Effects
There have been few studies on the effects of drinking this tea. One study showed drinking large quantities of this teas may increase the risk of respiratory issues. One possible reason is that sometimes Yerba Mate has been consumed at a very hot temperature which can cause esophageal or GI damage. Other studies show that Yerba Mate can obliterate cancer cells and reduces DNA damage. Like most caffeinated teas and coffee, drink occasionally and/or in moderation is suggested.
Versatile Drink
Yerba Mate makes a great iced tea and fruity drink for the summer. I like to add slices of oranges and lemon, which complement the flavor of this tea. You can also add to your smoothies and Yerba Chai tea is another popular way to enjoy this refreshing beverage.
References:
8 Health Benefits of Yerba Mate (Backed By Science) (n.d.) Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-benefits-of-yerba-mate#section2
D. Loria et al, "Cancer and yerba mate consumption: a review of possible associations." Pan American Journal of Public Health, June 2009; 25(6):530-9
Green, T. (2012, January 30). Yerba Mate tea kills colon cancer cells. Retrieved from http://www.naturalnews.com/034806_Yerba_mate_colon_cancer_caffeine.html
Guayaki Yerba Mate: All About Mate. (n.d.) Retrieved from http://guayaki.com/mate/130/Yerba-Mate.html
Mowrey, D. (n.d.). Why is Yerba Mate So Good For You? Retrieved from http://www.gauchogourmet.com/health-benefits-of-yerba-mate.html