Comparisons
Green Tea or Yerba Mate?
Green tea (Camellia sinensis) and yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) are different plants, but both contain caffeine and are assessed by the EMA for traditional use against tiredness. The table is built from the sourced cards of both herbs.
| Aspect | Green TeaCamellia sinensis | Yerba MateIlex paraguariensis |
|---|---|---|
| Strongest evidence | T Traditional use | T Traditional use |
| Needs | Energy & Focus | Energy & Focus, Liver, Kidney & Urinary |
| Form | Dried Herb & Tea | Dried Herb & Tea |
| How to use | Pour 100–150 ml of boiling water over 1.8–2.2 g of green tea leaf. | For tiredness: about 1 g of cut leaf as a tea; 2–4 g a day. |
| Pregnancy | Avoid | Avoid |
| Breastfeeding | Avoid | Avoid |
| Recommended minimum age | From age 18 | From age 18 |
| Drug interactions | Interactions reported | Interactions reported |
| Duration limit | See a doctor if no better within 1 week | Not stated |
Which one, when?
Green Tea
Traditionally drunk as a brewed tea for tiredness and weakness. Extract supplements with 800 mg or more EGCG a day have raised liver enzymes; avoid extracts.
Full card →Yerba Mate
Traditionally used for tiredness and weakness, and with plenty of fluid to increase urine flow in mild urinary complaints. Not used when fluid intake must be restricted.
Full card →Good to know
- People with stomach or duodenal ulcers, high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders or an overactive thyroid should use neither.
- Caffeine can disturb sleep, so avoid them before bed; it can also weaken sedative medicines.
- Neither is recommended under 18, during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Sources
- Community herbal monograph on Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze, non fermentatum foliumEMA HMPC · 2013 · MonographSource accessed:
- Community herbal monograph on Ilex paraguariensis St. Hilaire, foliumEMA HMPC · 2010 · MonographSource accessed:
- Scientific opinion on the safety of green tea catechinsEFSA ANS Panel · 2018 · Official agency informationSource accessed: