Papaya - a world class meat tenderizer, natural digestive aid, prevents ulcers, and also a soft contact lense cleaner.Healing with Maté
A o-ounce cup of Maté contains about 50 milligrams of caffeine, about as much as a cup of tea or a can of cola soda. Instant coffee contains a little more caffeine (65 milligrams per cup). Brewed coffee contains two to three times as much (100 to 150 milligrams percup). (For details on caffeine’s benefits, see “Coffee”.)
Because Maté contains only one-third to one-half as much caffeine as a comparable-size cup of brewed coffee, its effects would be only a fraction as intense.
Colds and Flu - Some experts recommend vitamin C for colds. The herb is fairly high in vitamin C and is, in fact, the most nutritious stimulating beverage. (The Jesuits were right about Maté preventing scurvy.) Drinking Maté when you have a cold will provide one additional source of vitamine.
Premenstrual Syndrome - Diuretics help relieve the bloated feeling caused by premenstrual fluid retention. Women bothered by PMS might try Maté during the uncomfortable days just before their periods.
Rx for Maté
For a pleasantly bitter infusion, use I teaspoon of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day. Some people object to Maté’s odor, although others learn to enjoy it. Add honey and lemon if you need to.
Maté should not be given to children under age 2. For older children and people over 65, start with low-strength preparations and increase strength if necessary.