Mate tea: what it is, how it is made and how much caffeine it has

Introduction

Its fame began with the tribes of South America, where it was considered not just a drink, but a social ritual.
Our goal here is for you to get an in-depth look at what it is, how it works, how it is prepared, and why it is worth incorporating into your routine.

What is green mate?

The green tea mate comes from the leaves of the plant Ilex paraguariensis.
Its cultivation flourishes mainly in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and parts of Brazil.
There, sharing a mate around a group of people is not just drinking a beverage — it's a social act, a symbol of hospitality and friendship.
Unlike black mate, green mate undergoes less processing.
This means a milder flavor, more ingredient retention, and a more “fresh” profile.
Its cultural significance is enormous: the green tea mate It is as sacred in the everyday lives of many peoples as coffee is to us.

How much caffeine does mate have?

Mate contains natural caffeine.
A cup of mate usually has around 70–80 mg of caffeine, depending on the amount of leaves and the extraction time.
It is less than a cup of filter coffee and more than a cup of green tea.
It also contains theobromine, the substance we also find in cocoa.

How to make mate correctly

Put 1–2 teaspoons green tea mate in 200 ml of water at 70–80°C, not boiling, because it becomes bitter.
Leave for 4–5 minutes and strain.
The same leaves can withstand a second heating.
For cold mate, leave the leaves in cold water in the refrigerator for 6–8 hours and strain.

How is it consumed?

The green tea mate can be enjoyed in various ways.

Traditional way

In South America they use a gourd (calabash) and a special metal straw (bombilla).
They fill the container with mate leaves, add hot water and share the drink in a circular manner.

Tereré – the cool version

In warmer regions, mate is drunk cold, known as tereré.
This refreshing drink is often flavored with fresh herbs or citrus juice.

Creative ways

It can be incorporated into tea with mint, ginger or lemon.
Mate powder can be added to smoothies, cereal bars, or even desserts for a more intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions

Does it have more caffeine than coffee?
No.
A cup of mate usually has less caffeine than a cup of filter coffee, but more than green tea.

Is it safe for daily consumption?
Yes, in moderation, like any caffeinated beverage.
It's best not to drink it hot.

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women drink it?
Because it contains caffeine, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your doctor first.

Where can I find it?
In natural and online herbal stores, supermarkets and organic grocery stores.

Conclusion

The green tea mate it's not just another trend in the world of beverages.
If you try it, you'll probably understand why so many people around the world consider it an integral part of their lives.

In our online store you will find green mate tea and all our other teas.

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