This is the traditional drink of Central South America, usually drank in a gourd with a perforated one ended straw. It is rich in the l-isomer of Caffeine, often referred to as Mateine; it tends to have less physical side effects than Caffeine.Contains 196 active chemical compounds, of which 144 are also found in green tea. Increases short term physical and mental energy levels. used to treat headaches, migraines, fatigue and mild depression.