Does Yerba Mate Have Caffeine?
Does Yerba Mate Have Caffeine?
Short answer: yes. Long answer: oh hell yes.
Yerba Mate and Caffeine
Yerba mate is a naturally caffeinated drink made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. An 8oz serving of yerba mate typically contains 30–50mg of caffeine, depending on how it’s brewed. That’s less than a standard cup of coffee (about 95mg) but more than most teas.
What makes yerba mate unique isn’t just how much caffeine it has—it’s how your body feels when you drink it.
How Yerba Mate Energy Feels Different
Most people describe mate’s effect as alert but calm. Unlike the spike-and-crash of coffee, yerba mate delivers smooth, sustained energy. This difference comes from other compounds in mate:
Theobromine — the same feel-good chemical found in chocolate; improves mood and focus.
Theophylline — a mild stimulant that supports alertness.
Polyphenols and antioxidants — which may help balance the body’s response to caffeine.
Together, they create what mate drinkers call “clean energy.”
Yerba Mate Caffeine vs. Coffee and Tea
Coffee: ~95mg per 8oz. Strong jolt, but often comes with jitters and a crash.
Black Tea: ~40–70mg per 8oz. Gentler, but can feel too mild.
Green Tea: ~25–40mg per 8oz. Light energy, often calming.
Yerba Mate: ~30–50mg per 8oz. Balanced, steady, and smoother than coffee.
Does Brewing Change the Caffeine?
Yes. The amount of caffeine in yerba mate depends on how you brew it:
Traditional gourd & bombilla: Typically higher caffeine, since you refill the leaves multiple times.
French press or tea infuser: Moderate caffeine, similar to a strong tea.
Cold brew (tereré): Smoother, lower caffeine extraction, but still energizing.
Market brews & blends: Ratios of yerba mate, guayusa, and herbs can raise or lower the caffeine level.
Health Benefits of Yerba Mate’s Caffeine
The caffeine in yerba mate is part of why it’s so popular. Potential benefits include:
Improved mental focus and clarity
Sustained physical energy for workouts or long workdays
Reduced crash risk compared to coffee
Possible metabolism support thanks to its unique compounds
Side Effects and Considerations
Yerba mate is safe for most people, but—like coffee—it can cause side effects if you overdo it:
Trouble sleeping if consumed late in the day
Sensitivity in people who react strongly to caffeine
Stomach upset for those new to bold, bitter drinks
Moderation is key. Start with a smaller serving and see how your body responds.
Yerba Mate FAQ
Does yerba mate have more caffeine than coffee?
No. Coffee usually has nearly double the caffeine of yerba mate.
Does yerba mate give you jitters?
Most people say no. Its caffeine is balanced by other compounds, leading to smooth energy.
How much yerba mate can I drink in a day?
Two to three servings per day is typical. Like coffee, it depends on your personal tolerance.
Is yerba mate caffeine safe?
Yes, when consumed in moderation. It’s similar to tea and coffee in caffeine safety.
Final Sip
Yerba mate absolutely has caffeine—but it’s not just about the number. Thanks to its unique mix of compounds, mate delivers energy that feels different: focused, smooth, and sustainable.
At Heretic Yerba, we blend yerba mate with guayusa, mint, and chai to craft modern brews that deliver clean energy without the crash. Whether you’re looking to cut coffee or just find a better fuel, yerba mate is the answer.
Question your caffeine. Choose yerba mate.