Does yerba mate contain a lot of caffeine?

January 11, 2026 •

4 min read

An 8-ounce cup of traditionally prepared yerba mate typically contains around 30 to 85 mg of caffeine, placing it between green tea and coffee in terms of potency. The exact amount is highly variable, depending on preparation methods and the specific leaves used.

Quick Summary

Yerba mate has a moderate caffeine level, less than coffee on a per-cup basis, but its energizing effects are distinct due to additional stimulating compounds like theobromine. The final caffeine content is heavily influenced by brewing variables and the type of yerba mate used.

Key Points

Moderate Caffeine: An 8 oz cup of yerba mate typically has 30-85mg of caffeine, less than coffee but more than green tea.
Smoother Energy: Yerba mate provides a more sustained, jitter-free energy boost, thanks to compounds like theobromine and theophylline.
Brewing Matters: Caffeine levels are highly variable and depend on the brewing method, water temperature, and steeping time.
Rich in Antioxidants: In addition to caffeine, yerba mate is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, offering significant health benefits.
Less Jitters: The combination of stimulants in yerba mate produces a more balanced and focused alertness compared to the intense kick from coffee.
Cultural Context: Traditional consumption involves sharing a gourd and can result in higher overall caffeine intake over a session, though the release is gradual.
Caffeine Sensitivity: Individuals sensitive to caffeine should monitor their intake, as excessive amounts can still cause side effects.

Yerba Mate's Caffeine Profile vs. Other Drinks

Many people turn to yerba mate seeking a natural energy lift, but how does its caffeine content stack up against more common beverages like coffee and tea? While a standard 8-ounce cup of coffee can pack 95-200 mg of caffeine, yerba mate's per-cup average is significantly lower, typically in the 30-85 mg range. However, the experience of yerba mate is distinct. Its energy boost is often described as smoother and more sustained, attributed to its unique blend of methylxanthines, which includes caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. Theobromine, also found in chocolate, is a milder stimulant that contributes to a more relaxed alertness, helping to prevent the anxious jitters and sudden energy crashes often associated with high coffee consumption.

The Importance of Brewing Method

Several factors can dramatically alter the caffeine content in your yerba mate, meaning the final amount is far from a fixed number. Your brewing method is one of the most critical variables:

Traditional Gourd & Bombilla: This classic South American method involves repeatedly refilling a gourd of leaves with hot water throughout a session. The total extracted caffeine over a session can be substantial, sometimes reaching levels comparable to espresso, although it is consumed gradually.
French Press: This method can produce a stronger brew than a quick-steep tea bag, extracting more caffeine by allowing for a longer immersion time.
Tea Bag/Infuser: For convenience, this method typically yields the mildest brew and lowest caffeine content per cup due to a shorter steeping time and smaller leaf quantity.

Factors Influencing Caffeine Levels

Beyond the brewing method, other elements play a crucial role in determining the final caffeine concentration:

Water Temperature: Using hot, but not boiling, water (around 160-180°F or 71-82°C) is key. Water that is too hot can 'burn' the leaves, resulting in a bitter taste and affecting the extraction process.
Steeping Time: The longer the leaves steep, the more caffeine is extracted. A longer steep will produce a stronger brew, while a shorter one will be milder.
Yerba Variety (Cut): The ratio of leaves to stems also matters. Blends with more stems, known as con palo, generally have less caffeine than blends made primarily of leaves (sin palo or despalada).
Harvest and Processing: The age of the plant, the season of harvest, and the processing methods (such as drying and aging) can all influence the natural caffeine concentration of the leaves.

Comparison Table: Yerba Mate vs. Other Stimulants


Feature	Yerba Mate (Traditional 8 oz)	Coffee (Drip, 8 oz)	Black Tea (8 oz)
Caffeine (avg.)	30-85 mg (variable)	95-200 mg	40-70 mg
Energy Effect	Sustained, smooth, focused	Rapid spike, potential for jitters and crash	Moderate, gentle boost
Other Stimulants	Theobromine, Theophylline	Minor traces	Theophylline
Antioxidants	Very high	Moderate	High
Cultural Context	Communal ritual, traditionally shared from a gourd	Individualistic daily routine, global staple	Personal daily routine

Health Benefits and Considerations

In addition to its energy-boosting properties, yerba mate is celebrated for its health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins (A, C, E, B vitamins), and minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Some studies suggest it may aid in weight management, reduce cholesterol, and have anti-inflammatory effects. For those sensitive to caffeine, its smoother effect is often a welcome alternative to coffee's intensity. However, it's important to be mindful of your personal caffeine tolerance and not overconsume, as excessive intake can lead to common caffeine-related side effects like insomnia, anxiety, and increased heart rate. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, as well as those with heart conditions, should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider. One additional consideration is the preparation temperature; habitually drinking extremely hot yerba mate has been linked to a higher risk of certain cancers, a risk also associated with other very hot beverages. Consuming it at a safe, warm temperature can mitigate this concern.

Conclusion

While the answer to "Does yerba mate contain a lot of caffeine?" is not a simple yes or no, it is clear that on a cup-for-cup basis, it generally contains less caffeine than coffee but more than green tea. The real story lies in the distinct nature of its energy boost. Thanks to the presence of other compounds like theobromine, yerba mate offers a characteristically sustained and focused energy without the common drawbacks of coffee, such as jitters and a sudden crash. The final caffeine level in your cup is highly customizable, depending on your brewing technique, water temperature, and the specific yerba mate blend. By understanding these factors, you can effectively manage your intake and enjoy the unique, balanced energy that this traditional South American beverage provides.

For more information on yerba mate, consult authoritative resources, such as the National Institutes of Health's LiverTox page, for detailed information on its properties and potential risks: LiverTox: Yerba Mate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the caffeine molecule is chemically the same, but yerba mate also contains other methylxanthines, theobromine and theophylline, which interact to create a smoother, less jittery energy release than coffee.

Traditional brewing with a gourd and bombilla, where the same leaves are repeatedly steeped throughout a session, can extract a high total amount of caffeine over time, sometimes comparable to espresso.

To reduce caffeine, you can use less yerba mate per serving, reduce the steeping time, and avoid using boiling water. Using a tea bag or infuser method typically results in a lower caffeine dose.

The smoother energy boost is attributed to yerba mate's combination of caffeine with theobromine and theophylline, which modulate the effects of caffeine and help avoid the rapid spike and crash associated with coffee.

Yes, excessive consumption can lead to caffeine-related side effects such as insomnia, nervousness, increased heart rate, and an upset stomach. People sensitive to caffeine should monitor their intake.

Yerba mate containing more leaves and fewer stems (known as sin palo) typically has a higher caffeine concentration than blends with more stems (con palo), as caffeine is primarily in the leaves.

When consumed in moderation, daily yerba mate is generally considered safe and is a regular ritual in South America. However, individuals should be aware of their personal caffeine sensitivity.