Yerba Mate is an invigorating drink made from a plant native to the subtropical forests of South America. It is known as the “Drink of the Gods” and is becoming more and more popular in North America.

Unlike most herbals (which are typically caffeine-free), Yerba Mate offers a strong caffeine kick. However, if you get the jitters from coffee, you might not from Yerba Mate! Its unique chemical composition tends to impact people differently from coffee, leaving them alert without feeling shaky.

Here are the basics of the two beverages:

• 95-150 mg of caffeine in 1 cup (8 oz.)
• Potassium 116 mg
• Vitamins B and E
• Protein 0.28g
• No sugar, no fiber (except if you add it to cover up coffee’s bitterness!)
• Provides 11% of the daily value of riboflavin
• Antioxidants

Contains trace amounts of other vitamins, niacin, thiamine, zinc and magnesium. It is said some compounds in coffee may hinder the absorption of minerals such as iron, calcium and zinc.

• 40-90 mg of caffeine in 1 cup (8 oz.)
• Minerals: calcium, manganese, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc
• Vitamins: A, C, E, B1, B2, niacin (B3), B5, B complex
• Additional compounds: carotene, fatty acids, chlorophyll, flavonols, polyphenols, inositol
• 15 amino acids
• Antioxidants

Contains trace minerals, antioxidants, tannins, pantothenic acid, theophylline and theobromine. (Tannins can cause teeth stains – click here to read how you can prevent tea from staining your teeth.)

As you can see, there are several benefits to drinking Yerba Mate over coffee. Not only does it bring about wakefulness with lower amounts of caffeine, but it holds a variety of nutrients. And Yerba Mate is also low in tannins so it can be strong like coffee but doesn’t become too bitter. Also check out Yerba Mate’s cousin, Guayusa Tea.

Yerba Mate is delicious by itself and also pairs well with other flavors. If you prefer a mocha, try Roasted Cocoa Yerba Mate. Here are a few of our recommended Yerba Mate teas:

This single-ingredient mate has a roasty flavor and a smooth autumnal character. With a high caffeine level, this malty, energizing cup satisfies that need for an earthy, hearty brew. Roasted leaves give this mate a sweeter tone, almost a caramel note, which balances the leaves’ natural astringency.

Toasty and stout with a robust caffeine level, this blend of mate, rooibos, and chicory is perfect for those looking for an alternative to coffee that doesn’t sacrifice full, rich flavor. Yerba Mate offers nutrition and sustained energy without the side effects associated with coffee. Almonds, chocolate chip drops, and vanilla overtones add layers of flavor and make this mate a great mocha replacement.

Good Morning Yerba Mate is chai-like and full of spicy roasted notes. The blend of Yerba Mate and Rooibos is complemented by coconut flakes, coconut flakes, cocoa bits, cloves and cinnamon. This rich infusion provides the heartiness of a chai or even a coffee replacement. Add a touch of sugar and your favorite milk to up the experience.

Thirsty for more? See our complete line of Yerba Mates!

Learn more about caffeine in coffee vs. tea