Mate´ Tea

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Mate´ Tea

 

Once popular with the Inca tribe, a group native to South America, mate´ tea is today the national drink of the Argentinean gauchos, or South American cowboys. They hollow out a gourd, add the leaves of the evergreen bush (also known as mate´) and fill the gourd with hot water. The prepared tea is sipped through a hollow metal spoon like a straw. The slightly bitter tea is a good thirst quencher and contains many valuable vitamins, trace elements and enzymes. Caffeine gives the tea an energizing effect, which is beneficial for mental or physical fatigue. Because the caffeine is partially bound to tannins, it is mild and well tolerated. Mate´ tea also curbs the feeling of hunger, so it is an option for a natural appetite suppressant. Because it promotes the elimination of wastes and supports intestinal flora, drink mate´ tea when you are fasting.

 

Preparation of the Tea:

 

Pour 1 cup of hot water over 2 tsp. of dried mate´ leaves. Allow the tea to step for 5-15 min. If the tea is too bitter, discard the water after 30 sec. and pour ore water over the leaves. The second cup will contain less caffeine and not taste as strong. If desires, sweeten the tea with honey or maple syrup.

 

Therapeutic Effect:

 

The main component of mate´ leaves is caffeine, half of which is bound to tannins. It gently stimulates the brain and promotes metabolism and intestinal activity. Saponins, another ingredient, flush out water that has accumulated in tissue; when applied externally, they have a germicidal effect and will promote wound healing. Mate´ tea contains vitamins A, B 1, B 2, and C, which strengthen the body’s ability to fight infections.

 

Chlorogenic acid makes heavy metal harmless:

 

The chlorogenic acid contained in mate´ leaves forms complex bonds with heavy metals in the body. Heavy metals are harmless in that form because they are excreted by the urinary tract and digestive system. A cup of mate´ tea after a new dental filling will help detoxify the body.

 

Saponins and tannins promote wound healing:

 

The tea’s saponins and tannins may disinfect wounds that are slow to heal, thus accelerating the healing process. Put 2 tsp. of mate´ leaves in 1 cup of boiled water. Cool until comfortably warm, and strain. Dip a clean cloth in the tea, and place compress on the wound.

 

 

 

 

Daily Ritual:

 

In summer, quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of cold mate´ tea. Make the tea, refrigerate and serve with a bit of lemon juice.

 

 

Medicinal Uses:

 

When dieting and fasting:

 

Mate´ tea is a good choice during a diet or fast. Its mild caffeine content promotes the breakdown of sugar and fat. Hunger is reduced and energy is released for the metabolic process. Drink 3 cups daily.

 

 

To detoxify:

 

The components of mate´ leaves assist in cleaning the kidneys and gently promote elimination through the bladder and intestine without causing diarrhea. In spring or fall, try drinking 3-4 cups of mate´ tea every day for 4 weeks. The brew will boost your metabolic system and encourage excretion of bodily toxins.

 

 

To strengthen the nerves:

 

The stimulating effect of caffeine increases concentration and it thought to be beneficial to those studying for exams. Caffeine also helps to distribute vitamins and mineral to the nerve cells. Allow the tea to steep for 5-8 min. and sip while the tea is still hot. Add 2 tsp. of honey to strengthen its effect and provide nutrition to your nervous system.

 

 

For bladder infections:

 

Die to its diuretic and slightly disinfectant effects, mate´ tea can help bladder infections. Drink 4 cups of the hot tea each day at the first sign of a bladder infection. Contact your physician if the problem persists.

 

 

Healing Tea Mixtures:

 

For Colds:

 

1 oz. mate´ leaves

2/3 oz. linden flowers

2/3 oz. elder flowers

Honey to taste

 

brew with 1 cup of boiling water. This combination of herbs makes a tea that promotes perspiration during a fever, cooling the body.

 

 

For bladder infections:

 

1 oz. mate´ leaves

1 oz. bearberry leaves

2/3 g. birch leaves

1/3 oz. marsh-mallow root

1/3 oz rose hips

 

Place the dried herbs in 1 cup of freshly boiled water, cover and let stand. This tea disinfects the kidneys and bladder.

 

 

For low blood pressure:

 

1 oz. mate´ leaves

1 oz. hawthorn fruits

2/3 oz. rosemary leaves

2/3 oz. St. John’s wort

 

Brew with 1 cup of boiling water. This herb mixture makes an invigorating tea that strengthens the heart’s rhythm and stimulates blood circulation without irritating the nerves.

 

 

 

Before undertaking the advice contained here, you should consult with a health care professional, who can better assess your individual needs, symptoms and treatments.

~The Complete Guide to Natural Healing~

©MCMXCIX International Masters Publishing AB

 

Blessings

Ani