Difference between matcha and mate: benefits and preparations

You've probably heard of matcha and mate, two drinks that are attracting more and more tea and wellness ritual lovers. They're sometimes confused, but their differences are numerous, whether in origin, taste, benefits , or preparation. In this article, we'll explore the world of matcha and mate in detail so you can choose the one that best suits your lifestyle.

Origin and culture

Matcha and mate come from opposite continents and each reflect a traditional culture.

• Matcha is deeply linked to Japanese history, a symbol of serenity and concentration.
• Mate , or yerba mate, is at the heart of South American traditions, often shared among friends as a convivial moment.

These plants have crossed the years and borders to become popular alternatives to coffee today.

History of Matcha

Matcha has its roots in China , but it was in Japan that it was perfected and incorporated into the tea ceremony. For centuries, it has been associated with meditation, Zen discipline, and the art of savoring the moment. The young tea leaves are shaded before harvest, then ground into a fine, unique powder rich in vegetal flavors.

History of mate

Mate, on the other hand, originates from Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil. Indigenous peoples were already consuming it long before the arrival of settlers. This infusion, prepared in a gourd and drunk with a bombilla, has been part of social traditions for hundreds of years. In Latin America, sharing a mate is a bond of conviviality.

Health Benefits

Both drinks are packed with health benefits, but their properties differ. Both provide antioxidants, vitamins, and caffeine , but in different ways. They can help maintain healthy habits and improve daily energy.

Benefits of Matcha

• Rich in catechins and other antioxidants that protect cells.
• Contains caffeine combined with theanine, providing a mild and long-lasting stimulating effect .
• Promotes concentration and mental clarity, ideal during work or study.
• May support weight loss through its role in fat burning.
• Provides beneficial amino acids and nutrients.
  

Benefits of mate

• Rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, it contributes to defense against oxidative stress.
• Its combination of caffeine and theobromine provides more lively energy.
• Source of vitamins (B, C, E) and minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
• May promote weight loss and help control appetite.
• Provides a stimulating side appreciated before sport or physical activities.
  

Preparation and consumption

The rituals surrounding matcha and mate make all the difference. Each drink has its own preparation method and traditional utensils.

Preparing matcha

Matcha is prepared by whisking a small amount of fine powder with hot (never boiling) water in a bowl. The result is a creamy drink with a vegetal, slightly bitter taste, yet rich in umami. Today, it's used in modern recipes: oat milk lattes, smoothies, desserts. It's a unique drink that fits perfectly into an active and healthy lifestyle.

Preparation of mate

Mate is prepared by placing yerba mate leaves in a gourd two-thirds full. A bombilla is then inserted to filter the infusion, before adding hot water. The taste is often bitter, but there are milder variations. In Latin America, it is consumed several times a day, in groups or alone.

Comparison of the properties of the two drinks

Here is a comparison table to better visualize the differences:

Criteria	Matcha	Mate
Origin	Japan, Zen and meditative culture	Paraguay, Brazil, Argentina, social drink
Shape	Green tea powder	Dried leaves
Preparation	Whisked in hot water with a chasen	Infused in a gourd with a bombilla
Taste	Vegetal, umami, slightly bitter	Bitter, earthy, sometimes smoky
Caffeine	About 70 mg, stable effect thanks to theanine	About 80 mg, lively energy with theobromine
Benefits	Concentration, gentle energy, antioxidants	Energy booster, vitamins
Tradition	Individual and meditative ritual	Friendly and social sharing

Differences in caffeine content

• Matcha: Approximately 70 mg of caffeine per serving, but with a gradual effect thanks to theanine. Perfect for concentration without jitters.
• Mate: About 80 mg of caffeine per serving, combined with theobromine, for a faster boost.

Both drinks can replace coffee, but the feeling is different: sweetness and balance for matcha, more lively stimulation for mate.

Other compositional differences

• Matcha: rich in catechins, chlorophyll and amino acids, which gives it its intense green color and vegetal flavors.
• Mate: Contains more saponins, vitamins and minerals, with a touch of theobromine which acts as a mood regulator.
• Taste: Matcha is umami , round, vegetal; mate is earthy, bitter and sometimes smoky.

In short, matcha and mate are two drinks with different origins and preparations, but which share the same objective: to improve your health and provide energy.

• Looking for a meditative ritual, delicate flavors, and a gentle energy that promotes concentration? Choose matcha.
• Looking for a more sociable drink with a bitter taste and a more intense stimulating effect ? ​​Choose mate.

In any case, these plants from Japan and South America deserve a place in your healthy habits. It's up to you to discover the one that will accompany your days.

FAQ

Does matcha contain more caffeine than mate?

No. Matcha contains slightly less of it (≈70 mg) than mate (≈80 mg). But the theanine in matcha softens the effect of caffeine, making it more stable.

Is mate better than coffee for energy?

Yes, for many people. Mate provides a longer-lasting boost than coffee , with less jitters.

Can you drink matcha and mate on the same day?

Absolutely. You can start with matcha in the morning for focus, then mate in the afternoon for more energy.