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Frequently Asked Questions

About Yerba Mate

Yerba mate, scientifically known as Ilex paraguariensis, is a plant closely related to tea, celebrated for its balanced energizing effects, rich nutritional profile, and distinctive taste. It’s particularly noted for its unique brewing method. Originating from South America—specifically northern Argentina, Paraguay, and southern Brazil—yerba mate holds significant cultural importance, symbolizing values of friendship and communal sharing. This infusion is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to health benefits that include boosting mental focus, aiding digestion, and enhancing physical endurance. Its cultural and health aspects make it a popular choice among health-conscious individuals and those interested in traditional South American beverages.

Yerba mate’s unique stimulating properties, compared to coffee, energy drinks, or other caffeine sources, can be attributed to its distinctive blend of active compounds and its interaction with the body.

Unique Composition: Yerba mate contains a trio of xanthines—caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. While caffeine is the primary stimulant in coffee and many energy drinks, yerba mate’s additional compounds, particularly theobromine (also found in chocolate), contribute to a different kind of stimulation. Theobromine is known for providing a gentler, longer-lasting boost of energy without the sharp spike and crash often associated with caffeine.

Balanced Effects: The combination of these compounds in yerba mate leads to a more balanced stimulating effect. Users often report a smoother, more sustained energy lift and improved mental clarity, without the jitters or anxiety that can accompany high caffeine intake from other sources. This makes yerba mate an excellent choice for those seeking a moderate, steady energy boost throughout the day.

Nutritional Profile: Yerba mate is also rich in vitamins (including A, B1, B2, B3, B5, C, and E), minerals (such as calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc), amino acids, and antioxidants. This complex nutritional makeup contributes to yerba mate’s overall effects, offering health benefits beyond stimulation. The antioxidants, for instance, can help combat oxidative stress, while the vitamins and minerals support overall health.

Yerba mate is more than just a beverage; it’s a holistic health enhancer rich in antioxidants, nutrients, caffeine, and theobromine. Known for providing a balanced energy lift, yerba mate also sharpens mental focus without the typical caffeine-related side effects. Here are some key benefits:

Mental Clarity and Focus: Its unique blend of caffeine and theobromine enhances cognitive function, making it a favorite among students and professionals.

Natural Digestive Aid: Yerba mate can aid digestion, making it a great beverage choice after meals or for those with digestive concerns.

Fitness Support: It’s popular among fitness enthusiasts for its ability to increase fat oxidation and improve workout efficiency.

Social Connection and Ritual: Drinking yerba mate is often a communal activity, promoting a sense of connection and well-being that is integral to mental health.

Antioxidant-Rich: High in antioxidants, yerba mate helps combat oxidative stress in the body, contributing to overall wellness.

While both hailing from the world of leaves, yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) and traditional tea (Camellia sinensis) are quite distinct. Grown exclusively in South America, yerba mate shares caffeine with its Asian cousin, the tea plant, but it also boasts theobromine, found in cacao, which provides a smoother, longer-lasting energy boost. Often described as having the vitality of coffee, the health benefits of green tea, and the joy of chocolate, yerba mate is truly unique. It's traditionally enjoyed with a gourd and bombilla (a metal filtering straw) for an authentic experience.

While coffee is a beloved beverage, yerba mate emerges as a healthier choice, especially for a second or afternoon cup. It’s less acidic than coffee, making it gentler on the stomach, and its rich polyphenol content provides additional health benefits. Yerba mate contains theobromine, which delivers a more relaxed, prolonged energy boost, helping you avoid the abrupt crash that coffee can sometimes cause. This makes it ideal for sustained afternoon productivity without disrupting sleep patterns. Additionally, yerba mate’s diverse range of vitamins and minerals enriches its nutritional profile, offering a more nourishing alternative for daily caffeine needs. We often suggest swapping your afternoon coffee with yerba mate for a smoother, more sustained energy lift throughout the day.

Morning or early afternoon is the ideal time to enjoy yerba mate, especially between 1 and 4 p.m., to maintain focus and avoid the afternoon slump. If you're sensitive to caffeine, avoid yerba mate within six hours of bedtime. For an enhanced workout experience, enjoy yerba mate 30 to 60 minutes before your exercise session!

Incorporating yerba mate into your daily routine is as safe as consuming regular tea or coffee. Rich in vitamins, minerals, polyphenols, and antioxidants, yerba mate not only boosts your intake of essential nutrients but may also positively impact metabolism.

Health experts generally consider yerba mate safe during pregnancy if you adhere to recommended caffeine limits. According to the FDA, pregnant women are advised to limit caffeine intake to less than 200 milligrams per day. While moderate caffeine consumption is generally safe, excessive intake may pose risks to the fetus. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice. Please note: This information is a guideline and should not substitute for professional medical consultation.

Yerba mate is rich in antioxidants and contains theobromine, a bitter alkaloid found in cacao known for its mild stimulant properties. Unlike caffeine, which primarily affects the central nervous system, theobromine mainly influences smooth muscle, making it a natural muscle relaxant with potentially longer-lasting effects and fewer side effects. Many sources suggest that consuming yerba mate can promote mental clarity, enhance concentration, and positively impact cognitive functions.

The ideal daily consumption of yerba mate varies based on individual caffeine sensitivity. In the United States, the FDA suggests that adults limit caffeine intake to no more than 400 mg per day. Considering that a serving of hot-brewed yerba mate usually contains about 80–150 mg of caffeine, and Mateina’s ready-to-drink products contain 80–130 mg per can, these figures can guide your yerba mate intake. Adjust your consumption to remain within these caffeine recommendations, promoting a healthy balance in your daily routine.

Yerba Mate may be a beneficial addition to a weight loss regimen, though it's not a standalone solution. Research suggests that it can boost fat burning, especially when paired with regular exercise. Its properties that suppress appetite and enhance metabolism can be supportive in managing weight. Furthermore, Yerba Mate may influence GLP-1, a hormone that plays a role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels, potentially leading to healthier eating habits and effective weight management.

The ideal water temperature for brewing Yerba Mate Tea ranges between 65 and 85 degrees Celsius (149 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit). Exceeding this range can impair the active compounds and nutrients in the leaves, much like with green tea. To achieve the perfect infusion, it's best to use water heated between 70 to 80 degrees Celsius (158 to 176 degrees Fahrenheit), which effectively steeps the leaves without burning the essential nutrients.

A cup of hot brewed Yerba Mate Tea contain anywhere between 80 and 150 mg of naturally occurring caffeine.

A traditional Yerba Mate infusion using a gourd and bombilla contain anywhere between 150 and 200 mg of caffeine if you use 50 grams of loose-leaf yerba mate and infuse it 15 times (as suggested on our preparation page)

Mateina's Yerba Mate Canned Drinks contain 80 or 130 mg of caffeine. Our non-sparkling Yerba Mate contain 130mg per can and our sparkling version contain 80 mg per can.

Yerba Mate in a Tea Bag contain around 25 mg of caffeine per cup when you use one bag.

Traditional processing often involves smoking Yerba Mate leaves, which can lead to PAHs—potentially harmful chemicals. In contrast, our Yerba Mate is 100% air-dried, avoiding these risks and offering a safer, healthier, and lighter taste. This method ensures our Yerba Mate is free from PAHs, aligning with our commitment to health and quality.

It is not recommended to reuse an infusion the next day. It will likely have oxidized, and the taste will not be optimal.

You can buy Yerba Mate Tea everywhere in the United States by ordering on our website. Visit our product page to place an order. We offer a free 3 days shipping all across the continental United States.

Mateina’s yerba mate, which is 100% air-dried, is generally safe for daily consumption. Concerns about yerba mate’s safety often stem from studies linking smoked yerba mate, which contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), to certain health risks. PAHs are chemicals known to be carcinogenic when consumed in high concentrations. Our yerba mate undergoes a unique air-drying process, using warm air instead of smoke. This method effectively eliminates PAHs, ensuring our leaves are free from these harmful compounds. As a result, our yerba mate offers a safe, healthful, and delicately flavored beverage option. Understanding the drying process of yerba mate is crucial, so we encourage choosing air-dried yerba mate for its health benefits and safety.

Yerba mate typically contains a negligible amount of calories, so consuming it should not significantly break a fast. However, adding milk, sugar, or other calorie-containing ingredients to your yerba mate could impact your fasting state. For the most accurate advice tailored to your specific fasting goals, consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist.

Like tea and coffee, yerba mate contains natural caffeine. Generally, when consumed in moderation, yerba mate is well-tolerated and safe for most people. However, excessive caffeine consumption, including from yerba mate, can lead to certain side effects, such as insomnia, upset stomach, increased heart rate, and other related symptoms. It's important to monitor your caffeine intake and adjust it according to your tolerance levels to enjoy the benefits of yerba mate without adverse effects.

Yerba mate is less likely to stain your teeth compared to darker beverages like coffee or tea, thanks to its brighter hue. However, it’s important to note that yerba mate still contains natural compounds called tannins, which can adhere to tooth enamel over time and lead to discoloration with frequent consumption. To minimize the risk of staining, consider drinking yerba mate with a straw to help direct the liquid past your teeth.

Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and rinsing your mouth with water after consumption, can further reduce the chances of staining. For more tips on enjoying yerba mate while safeguarding your dental health, visit our dedicated information page.

Hot Yerba Mate, prepared by infusing the leaves yourself, is undeniably the optimal choice to maximize the health benefits of Yerba Mate Tea. When you brew it hot, you extract more antioxidants, vitamins, and essential compounds, making it the preferred method for those seeking the full spectrum of benefits.

On the other hand, cold ready-to-drink Yerba Mate options are convenient, delicious, and offer a refreshing pick-me-up. However, it's important to note that these cold versions generally contain fewer antioxidants and vitamins compared to their loose leaf counterparts.

Ultimately, the choice between hot and cold Yerba Mate depends on your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize health benefits and flavor richness, hot Loose Leaf Yerba Mate is the way to go. Conversely, if you valueconvenience and a tasty, on-the-go option, cold ready-to-drink Yerba Mate can be an excellent choice.

Yerba mate stands apart from traditional energy drinks, offering a natural and more holistic energy boost. Unlike energy drinks that often contain high caffeine levels, sugars, and artificial additives, yerba mate’s energizing effects come from a single active ingredient, similar to coffee and tea. This ingredient is caffeine, but it’s present in more moderate amounts compared to standard energy drinks, resulting in a smoother and more sustained energy lift without the jitters or crashes often associated with energy drinks. Additionally, yerba mate is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to its nutritional profile and making it a healthier alternative to synthetic energy drinks. As a single-brew beverage, it provides a natural and straightforward source of energy, akin to coffee and tea, but with a unique blend of health benefits. For those seeking a natural energy boost along with a host of other health benefits, yerba mate is a superior choice compared to conventional energy drinks.

The number of times you can re-infuse Yerba Mate depends on the method of preparation:

Traditional Gourd and Bombilla: When using the traditional method with a gourd and bombilla, you can typically re-infuse Yerba Mate up to 20 times. The number of infusions may vary based on factors such as infusion time and water temperature.

French Press or Tea Infuser: If you opt for a French press or tea infuser, you can generally expect to infuse Yerba Mate 2 to 3 times, similar to how you would with regular tea.

The ability to re-infuse Yerba Mate allows you to enjoy its flavors and benefits multiple times from a single serving. For detailed instructions on how to prepare and infuse Yerba Mate, please visit our preparation page.

The aging process of Yerba Mate, common in Argentine, Paraguayan, and Uruguayan varieties, reduces bitterness and changes the flavor by breaking down bitter compounds and allowing for oxidation, which mellows the taste. This process also reduces moisture, leading to a smoother, more complex flavor with notes of woodiness and subtle sweetness. In contrast, Brazilian Yerba Mate (green Yerba Mate) is not aged, preserving its fresh, grassy, and more bitter flavor due to the higher content of polyphenols and tannins. Mateina uses an Argentine aged Yerba Mate to provide a smoother and more complex taste.

About Mateina

Mateina's Yerba Mate is proudly sourced from the lush, green province of Misiones, Argentina. Our premium yerba mate comes from a dedicated fourth-generation farming family committed to organic, fair-trade, and sustainable agricultural practices. In the heart of Misiones, our yerba mate is cultivated with a deep respect for the surrounding native forests, ensuring a harmonious balance with the local ecosystem. The farming methods allow for a sustainable coexistence of various botanical species, fostering biodiversity and environmental preservation. This responsible approach to cultivation supports the health of our planet while ensuring the highest quality and purity of our yerba mate.

The term "mateina" (known as "mateine" in English) refers specifically to the distinctive blend of active alkaloids found in yerba mate, including caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. This unique combination sets yerba mate apart from other caffeinated beverages. While "mateina" is often used interchangeably with caffeine in the context of yerba mate, it highlights the special synergy of these alkaloids, contributing to the beverage's unique effects. This blend not only provides a stimulating effect but also offers balanced, long-lasting energy and enhanced mental clarity, which are characteristic of yerba mate. For those curious about the unique properties and effects of yerba mate, "mateina" encapsulates the essence of this energizing and nourishing South American brew.

Mateina offers a unique approach to energy drinks, focusing on natural and healthful stimulation. The key distinction lies in its energy source: yerba mate. Unlike many energy drinks that rely on stimulants like green coffee, tea, guarana, or synthetic caffeine, Mateina's boost comes solely from the caffeine and theobromine naturally present in yerba mate leaves. This combination ensures a more consistent and focused energy lift, free from the abrupt peaks and crashes often experienced with traditional energy drinks.

In addition to its natural stimulants, Mateina is an organic tea infusion, setting it apart from standard energy drink formulas that often include synthetic additives and high sugar content. Mateina's composition leads to a lighter, healthier option with significantly less sugar, providing a gentle, well-balanced energy surge. This makes it not only a refreshing alternative but also a healthier one, allowing for sustained energy levels without the negative side effects commonly associated with conventional energy drinks.

The caffeine content in our yerba mate varies depending on the form and preparation.

For a cup of hot brewed yerba mate, you can expect approximately 80 to 150 mg of naturally occurring caffeine. If you're using a traditional gourd and bombilla for infusion, with about 50 grams of loose-leaf yerba mate, the caffeine content can range from 150 to 200 mg, especially with multiple infusions.

In our ready-to-drink canned products, the caffeine content is tailored to suit different preferences, with around 130 mg of caffeine per can. This variety in caffeine content across our product line ensures you can choose the level of energy boost that best fits your needs and preferences.

The inclusion of stems in our loose leaf Yerba Mate is a deliberate choice, rooted in traditional practices and the pursuit of balanced flavor. Known as the 'classic cut', this blend is widely favored in Argentina for its ability to harmonize the inherent bitterness of Yerba Mate leaves. The stems act as natural sweeteners, softening the sharpness and creating a more pleasant taste profile.

While some producers have begun offering stem-free blends, we at Mateina believe that the inclusion of stems offers a superior taste and overall experience. This is because the stems contain a higher concentration of theobromine, a stimulant known for its soothing effects. This compound complements the caffeine in the leaves, resulting in a balanced, uplifting yet relaxing effect that distinguishes our Yerba Mate from others.

All our products are certified organic by Ecocert Canada. We are proud to offer ready-to-drink and loose-leaf yerba mate grown without the use of pesticides, herbicides, or artificial fertilizers.

Mateina's ready-to-drink Yerba Mate is crafted for those seeking both convenience and authentic Yerba Mate flavor. Each can starts with an infusion of organic Yerba Mate leaves, ensuring the preservation of the plant's natural properties and robust flavor. To this infusion, we add carefully selected organic fruit juices and fragrances, enhancing the drink with natural fruit flavors without overpowering the Yerba Mate's essence.

The sweetness in our beverages comes from organic cane sugar, added in moderation to strike a balance between the natural bitterness of Yerba Mate and the tanginess of the fruit juices. This combination results in a refreshing, ready-to-drink beverage that maintains the integrity of traditional Yerba Mate while offering a palatable and enjoyable taste.

Our infusion process is meticulous, aiming to extract the optimal flavor and beneficial compounds from the Yerba Mate leaves, mirroring the traditional brewing methods. The final product is a harmonious blend that brings the authentic experience of Yerba Mate in a convenient, ready-to-drink form.

Mateina Yerba Mate drinks can be stored at room temperature. Since our canned products are pasteurized, they have a shelf life of 18 months at room temperature. We highly recommend refrigerating Mateina before consumption for the best drinking experience.

At Mateina, we take pride in using only 100% organic, natural ingredients in our products, ensuring a pure and authentic experience. For our loose-leaf Yerba Mate blends, we exclusively use Yerba Mate tea leaves that are 100% air-dried and sourced from Misiones, Argentina. This traditional drying method preserves the leaves' natural qualities and flavors.

Our ready-to-drink Yerba Mate beverages are crafted from a base of the same high-quality, air-dried Yerba Mate tea. To this, we add Yerba Mate leaf extract from Brazil, enhancing the caffeine content for a more robust energy boost. We then infuse the drink with organic fruit juices, carefully selected to complement the Yerba Mate's distinct flavor, creating a truly delightful taste experience.

Each product's detailed ingredient list and nutritional facts are transparently provided on the individual product pages on our website.

Most of the world's Yerba Mate is processed using a heavily smoked drying system that relies on burnt wood to dry the mate leaves. This method is known to produce Yerba Mate containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), chemicals shown to be carcinogenic if consumed in high concentrations.

Our Yerba Mate is 100% air-dried using warm air instead of smoke. This drying process enables the leaves to remain free of PAHs, creating a safe, healthy, and light-tasting Yerba Mate. Here’s why it’s important to avoid smoked Yerba Mate tea.

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