When it comes to yerba mate, there are a lot of different flavors out there. And if you're new to drinking this fascinating beverage, you may be wondering what flavors are safe to try. Luckily, I've got you covered.
In this article, I'm not only going to encourage you to follow your curiosity and actually try it, but I'm also going to give you five fan-favorite yerba mate flavors that are perfect for newbies by a super popular brand. But if you're as new to this beverage as I was up until a few weeks ago, you may still be asking...
What Exactly IS Yerba Mate?
Yerba mate has been consumed in South America for centuries, and it's only recently begun to gain popularity in other parts of the world. The Ilex paraguariensis plant is native to Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay, and it was traditionally harvested by the Guarani people.
The Guarani would brew a potent tea from the leaves of the plant and drink it for both medicinal purposes and as a way to stay awake during long hours of work or travel. They also believe that the spirit of the rainforest lives within the plant, and they consider it to be a sacred gift from nature.
Yerba mate eventually made its way to Europe, where it became popular among the upper class as a way to show off their wealth and status and in Uruguay, it's not uncommon for people to drink several cups of yerba mate per day.
Fast forward to today, and yerba mate is more popular than ever. It's become especially popular among young people in recent years, thanks in part to its many health benefits.
How Is Yerba Mate Made?
Now that you know a little bit about the history of yerba mate, you're probably wondering how it's made. Well, here's a quick overview:
- First, the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant are harvested by hand.
- Next, they are dried in the sun or in a dehydration chamber (avoiding direct contact with heat sources).
- Once they are completely dry, they are cut into small pieces and sorted according to quality.
- Finally, they are packaged up and sold!
And that's all there is to it! Making yerba mate is pretty simple - but making great yerba mate takes years of practice and experience. That's why I always recommend buying your yerba mate from a reputable source. You want to make sure you're getting high-quality leaves so that you can enjoy all of the amazing benefits that this incredible drink has to offer!
What Are SOME Of Yerba Mate's Potential Benefits?
Packed With Antioxidants And Nutrients
Yerba mate contains several xanthines, which are molecules that act as stimulants, and these include caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline.
In addition, yerba mate is rich in caffeoyl derivatives, saponins, and polyphenols, all of which are potent antioxidants. These nutrients help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, and they also improve communication between cells.
As a result, yerba mate has a wide range of health benefits, including improved mental focus, increased physical energy, and reduced inflammation. Thanks to its unique combination of nutrients, yerba mate is an excellent way to boost your health and vitality.
May Help Lower Blood Sugar
The exact mechanism by which yerba mate lowers blood sugar is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve the herb's ability to stimulate insulin signaling. So if you're struggling to keep your blood sugar under control, yerba mate may be worth a try.
May Help With Weight Loss
One of the benefits of yerba mate is that it may help with weight loss. Yerba mate can help burn fat by increasing metabolism and energy expenditure.
It can also help to suppress appetite, which can lead to reduced calorie intake and weight loss over time. Additionally, yerba mate may help the body to use fat stores more effectively, which can also lead to weight loss. Therefore, if you are looking to lose weight, yerba mate may be a helpful addition to your diet.
Can Improve Cognitive Function & Raise Energy Levels
Yerba mate contains caffeine, as well as a number of other nutrients that are known to improve mental alertness and cognitive function. In addition, yerba mate also contains a variety of antioxidants that can help to protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals.
As a result, drinking yerba mate regularly can help to improve mental focus and concentration. In addition to its cognitive benefits, yerba mate is also known to boost energy levels. This is due to its high caffeine content, as well as its nutrients that are essential for energy production. Therefore, drinking yerba mate can help you to feel more alert and energetic throughout the day.
May Improve Physical Performance
Recent studies have shown that yerba mate may help improve physical performance. One study found that athletes who supplemented with yerba mate were better able to utilize fat for energy.
It has also been shown that yerba mate can help to increase endurance and reduce fatigue during exercise.
The yerba mate plant, and thus yerba mate, is also a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins, which can help to protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation, which suggests that consuming it prior to activity may be a helpful tool for athletes looking to improve their physical performance.
May Boost The Immune System
This super herb drink is loaded with saponins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, yerba mate is a great source of vitamins C and E, as well as selenium and zinc. These nutrients are essential for a healthy immune system. Furthermore, yerba mate is packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body from damaging free radicals.
Yerba Mate Or Coffee- Which Has More Caffeine?
Yerba mate is known for its ability to promote mental alertness without causing the same level of jitters and anxiety as coffee.
Additionally, yerba mate contains several vitamins and minerals that coffee does not, making it a slightly healthier option. And for those who are looking to cut down on caffeine, many brands of yerba mate contain less caffeine than coffee. (But more than tea.)
However, it's important to note that some yerba mate drinks can have just as much or MORE caffeine as coffee, so it's always best to check the label before assuming that you're getting a caffeine-free beverage. But overall, yerba mate is a delicious and healthy alternative to coffee that is worth exploring.
What Are The Best Yerba Mate Flavors?
I know... FINALLY, right? If you've gotten this far into the article you must be DYING to know by now which flavors are best.
And considering the yerba mate flavor by itself is usually described as "slightly grassy with an herbal taste", "mildly bitter", and even "earthy/woody", it's a damn good thing it's now being made to taste like every flavor under the sun... unless those sorta flavors are your jam. I'm sure I can find you one with a subtle honey flavor at least. ;)
Now, for the sake of NOT overwhelming you to death, I am simply going to share the most popular flavors from one of the most popular and easy-to-find ORGANIC yerba mate brands both in person and on Amazon- Guayaki Yerba Mate!
Not only do they dominate in the flavored yerba mate arena but they also make quite the variety of organic yerba mate beverages- from loose- leaf yerba mate tea to canned yerba mate drinks (which I'm going to present to you right NOW), I'm sure there's something to tickle every taste bud. So let's dive in.
Guayaki- Yerba Mate Flavors
As previously mentioned, yerba mate is quickly becoming one of the most popular beverages in the world. It is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making it a healthy alternative to coffee or sugary drinks.
Guayaki is one of the leading brands of yerba mate, and they offer a wide variety of flavors to suit every taste. Here are 5 of the most popular Guayaki yerba mate flavors- with #1 being the BEST yerba mate flavor- along with an Amazon review describing why each flavor is so loved.
The Goods
Best Yerba Mate Flavors
Full Disclosure: WholisticHealthJunkie.com is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate programs, meaning that any links you click below may result in commissions at no extra cost to you. And now that THAT'S out of the way...Happy Scrolling! ;)
Bluephoria Guayaki Yerba Mate
This flavor is a favorite among those who are new to yerba mate. It has a light, refreshing taste that is perfect for hot summer days.
"I absolutely love this flavor! It's so light and refreshing, and it doesn't have the bitter aftertaste that some of the other flavors do." – Amazon Reviewer
Organic Bluephoria
Guayaki Yerba Mate, Clean Energy Drink Alternative, 15.5oz (Pack of 12), 150mg Caffeine
Enlighten Mint Guayaki Yerba Mate
This Guayaki yerba mate flavor is perfect for those who are looking for a minty twist on traditional yerba mate.
"I'm not usually a fan of mint flavored things, but this is really good! It's refreshing and has a nice hint of mint without being overwhelming." – Amazon Reviewer
Organic Enlighten Mint
Guayaki Yerba Mate, Clean Energy Drink Alternative, 15.5oz (Pack of 12), 150mg Caffeine
Revel Berry Guayaki Yerba Mate
This berry-flavored yerba mate is perfect for those who are looking for something fruity and refreshing.
"I absolutely love this flavor! It's perfect for summertime." – Amazon Reviewer
Organic Revel Berry
Guayaki Yerba Mate, Clean Energy Drink Alternative, 15.5oz (Pack of 12), 150mg Caffeine
Orange Exuberance Guayaki Yerba Mate
Orange Exuberance Yerba Mate is the perfect flavor for those who want to enjoy the taste of orange without all the sugar.
"This is my favorite flavor! I'm not usually a fan of orange flavored things, but this is really good." – Amazon Reviewer
Organic Orange Exuberance
Guayaki Yerba Mate, Clean Energy Drink Alternative, 15.5oz (Pack of 12), 150mg Caffeine
Lemon Elation Guayaki Yerba Mate
This flavor is perfect for those who want to enjoy the taste of lemon without all the sugar.
"This is my favorite flavor! I'm not usually a fan of lemon flavored things, but this is really good." – Amazon Reviewer
Organic Lemon Elation
Guayaki Yerba Mate, Clean Energy Drink Alternative, 15.5oz (Pack of 12), 150mg Caffeine
FAQ's
What does Bluephoria yerba mate taste like?
According to Amazon's product description: "Bluephoria has a delicious blueberry and elderberry flower flavor. It's easy drinking and clean tasting, and not too sweet. Mate has the strength of coffee, the health benefits of tea, and the euphoria of chocolate."
What is the flavor of yerba mate?
The flavor of plain yerba mate is earthy and vegetal with a slightly bitter aftertaste. Some people describe it as tasting like green tea, while others say it has its own unique flavor. As you drink more yerba mate, you'll develop a taste for it and learn to enjoy the flavors that come through. Enjoy!
What flavors pair well with yerba mate?
There are endless flavor combinations that can be paired with yerba mate, but some fan-favorites include: peach, raspberry, blueberry, and lavender. Each of these flavors pairs well with the herbal and woody notes of yerba mate and create a unique and delicious drinking experience.
How does yerba mate make you feel?
Most people who drink yerba mate feel an increase in energy and a sense of well-being. It is said to be a natural source of caffeine, and has been shown to improve cognitive function, memory, and vigilance. Additionally, yerba mate is a good source of antioxidants and minerals like magnesium, potassium, and zinc.
For some people, yerba mate can have a stimulating effect similar to coffee. But for others, it can be calming and relaxing. The effects seem to vary depending on the person's physiology and sensitivity to caffeine. So if you're new to yerba mate, start with a small dose (1/2 cup) and see how you feel before increasing the amount.
How much caffeine is in a Yerba?
A yerba mate typically contains around 85 mg of caffeine. However, there can be quite a bit of variation from brand to brand, so it's always important to check the label if you're looking for a specific caffeine content.
Is yerba mate good for weight loss?
Yes, yerba mate is definitely a good choice if you're looking to lose weight. It's a natural source of caffeine and antioxidants, both of which can help boost your metabolism and promote fat burning. Plus, it has a pleasing flavor that many people find more enjoyable than coffee.
Does Guayaki make a lime yerba mate?
Yes, Guayaki does make a lime yerba mate. It's called lima limon and it's one of their most popular flavors. The citrusy tang of the lime pairs perfectly with the herbal flavor of the yerba mate, making it a refreshing and revitalizing drink. If you're looking for a light and refreshing beverage that will energize you without all the sugar and caffeine, then give lima limon a try. You won't be disappointed!
Let's Recap!
If you're looking for a healthy alternative to coffee and/or tea, drink yerba mate! And if you're not sure where to start, the original yerba mate taste combined with any of the five flavor concoctions above will surely get you hooked! They all have rave reviews from Amazon customers, so clearly, you can't go wrong with any of them.
And with so many health benefits, you can feel good about drinking it every day. Give Guayaki yerba mate a try today! You can thank me later. ;)
