Ilex paraguariensis is a tree grown in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. The evergreen tree leaves are naturally caffeinated and used to make tea.
Harvesting Process
The South American plant is harvested in its 4th year, but optimal harvest occurs in years 7-8. After harvest, the leaves are dried within 24 hours to prevent degradation. The leaves are exposed to heat to delay fermentation and oxidation. Then the dried leaves are crushed into a powder, creating toasted product. The aging process, strictly controlled by experts, results in the distinctive flavor, color and aroma.
- The leaves and stems are cut into pieces, then sorted by origin to achieve the desired flavor that becomes more refined and gentle over time.
Learning the production process gives a deeper appreciation of this traditional beverage. From careful harvesting and drying to grinding and aging, every step ensures the highest quality.
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The plant grows for 2-3 years before being harvested.
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Leaves are picked by hand to avoid damage.
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After harvesting, leaves are dried to prevent fermentation and preserve flavor before being ground.
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The tree reaches 10-30 meters tall naturally but is kept under 2 meters for harvesting.
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It has thick, evergreen leaves and small white flowers with red berries.
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Harvesting happens every 2 years in winter on a rotating system. This ensures constant supply while allowing regrowth.
- Native trees can be harvested more often but cultivated ones are limited to once per year for 30 years.
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Harvesting skill is passed through families who have done it for generations.
- They spread sheets on the ground and cut branches by hand.
The plant must grow for 4 years before harvesting starts. Optimal harvest time varies by climate and region. Workers traditionally carry bundles on their backs then dry leaves as the first step.
It is an evergreen tree native to South America. It grows in Argentina, Southern Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. In the wild, it grows up to 8 meters tall. Its leaves are used to make a beverage. The infusion is prepared by filling a container up to three-quarters full with dry leaves and twigs, and filling it with hot water.
Plant Characteristics
It is a subtropical evergreen tree known for its caffeine-infused leaves used for tea. The plant produces fragrant small flowers. It can be grown successfully indoors in pots with well-drained soil, bright light, and medium to high humidity.
Cultural Significance
The indigenous people referred to it as a "herb from the gods" because of its health benefits.
It is an herb native to South America used to make the national drink of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Southern Brazil. It is more popular than coffee in these countries.
Preparation and Consumption
It is referred to as the ‘drink of the Gods’. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to naturally boost immunity, improve skin and hair.
It is a plant found in South America. Its caffeinated leaves are brewed to make a stimulating beverage. Referred to as the “drink of the Gods”, it is very popular in some regions. Wild grown is organic and most desirable.
It may be served hot or cold. Like black tea, it contains caffeine. When taken in large amounts or for long periods of time, it is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. It has a strong, bitter, vegetal taste.
It is prepared by steeping the dried leaves in hot water and consumed through a special straw that filters out loose leaves. It contains caffeine, theobromine, and antioxidants. In South America, it is often shared among friends and family.
Containing caffeine, theobromine, and antioxidants, this healthy concoction of stimulants isn’t psychedelic or hallucinogenic – but it’s the closest thing to it out of any other tea or coffee. The taste can be a bit bitter, but once you get used to it, you will most likely love it.
It is made from the naturally caffeinated and nourishing leaves of the celebrated South American rainforest holly tree (Ilex paraguariensis). It is full of compounds that have beneficial effects.
Safety
The immunoassay for cocaine detection in drugs-of-abuse screen is unable to detect passive inhalation of cocaine; however, false-positive interferences are seen with tea products.
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