Questions about making Guayusa.

[DrunkardsDream]

I know when you make yerba mate you are supposed to wet the leaves in cold water first to release the nutrients before you brew them, do you have to do this with guayusa leaves?

This is the plant I am asking questions about: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ilex_guayusa

 

[DrunkardsDream]

Apparently Guayusa can have at least 2% caffeine and as much as 5%. I have had some but it was pure leaves. I recently bought some made by stash tea that was on sale that has spearmint and peppermint in it. Does anyone here drink it or have you in the past? Is Guayusa carcinogenic like yerba mate?

 

[PriestTheyCalledHim]

I did a google search and I can't find anything about Guayusa being carcinogenic.

I've consumed it both plain, and with fruit, cocoa, and mint and it tastes good both plain and with the added herbs.