Yerba mate vs coffee. Though there are similarities between these two herbs, their long-term effects are like night and day. Coffee is great for a short burst of concentration and memory enhancement, but falls short as a long-term drink that can be safely consumed without any health risks, due to coffee’s high acidity and “crashing” effects with prolonged use. The caffeine in mate (sometimes referred to as ‘mateine‘), which has similar levels as coffee, appears to work differently, as it’s slow-releasing and sustainable, without any jitters and crashing effects (for most consumers). Learn more here: Yerba Mate vs Coffee.