Maté
Latin name: Ilex paraguariensis
Other names: Jesuit's Tea, Paraguay Tea, Yerba Maté
A Remedy For
Maté is also used as a treatment for mental and physical
fatigue and as a diuretic for flushing water from the body.
What It Is; Why It Works
Tea made from this herb is very popular in South America, the
only source of the plant. Maté is an evergreen with white
flowers and red fruit. Its medicinal parts are the dried or
roasted leaves, which have proven to be a rich source of caffeine.
Like coffee, Maté stimulates the central nervous system and has
a diuretic effect. It also increases the force of heart
contractions, affects heart rhythm, and breaks down sugars and
fats in the body.
Avoid If...
You should avoid Maté if you are sensitive to caffeine or have a
health condition that is aggravated by caffeine.
Special Cautions
Maté poses no problems when taken at normal dosage levels.
However, high doses of caffeine taken regularly can lead to
restlessness, irritability, insomnia, palpitations, dizziness,
vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and headache.
Possible Drug Interactions
No interactions have been reported.
Special Information If You Are
Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Many doctors recommend limiting caffeine intake during pregnancy
to the equivalent of 1 cup of coffee a day. Drinking the
equivalent of 4 cups or more per day could slow the baby's
development.
How To Prepare
Maté can be made into a tea by pouring boiling water over one-half
teaspoonful (2 grams) of crushed Maté. Steep for 5 to 10 minutes
then strain. You will find that the tea tastes better and is more
stimulating if it is steeped only a short time.
Maté is available alone and in various tea combinations. It's
also an ingredient in some commercial drinks.
Typical Dosage
Maté is taken orally. The usual daily dosage is 3 grams (about
three-quarters of a teaspoonful).
Overdosage
Massive doses of caffeine can cause stiffness, muscle spasms, and
heart irregularities, but are unlikely to be life-threatening. (The
lethal dosage is the equivalent of 75 cups of coffee at one
sitting.) Nevertheless, if you suspect an overdose--especially in
a child--seek medical attention immediately.