The herb can last 1-2 years if stored properly. Keep it in a cool, dry, dark place in an airtight container. Check for signs of spoilage like discoloration. Discard if spoiled. It can last a few months in the fridge in an airtight container. It can be frozen but may get freezer burn.
History
The indigenous Guaraní and Tupi first cultivated the leaves. After the Jesuits discovered its potential, it became widespread. Originally, natives chewed the leaves. Later, a tea became popular with South American cowboys.
Health Effects
Mate increases eye pressure due to caffeine. The increase starts in 30 minutes and lasts at least 90 minutes. Discuss use with your doctor if you have glaucoma. It can help maintain alertness.
The leaves may lower heart disease risk due to antioxidants and polyphenols. Studies show it may protect the heart. It does not seem to cause anxiety or jitters like coffee due to containing both caffeine and theobromine.
Can you store mate?
With an airtight container, moisture and odors can’t seep in. This decreases the chance of your mate growing mold. The POP Canisters by OXO are extremely simple to use. Just press the button to release the lid, pour the herb in, and seal it shut. Stash away from light. You can store it for years. It’ll taste fresh. A medium size can store one kilo. Any other bag fits the small canister.
You can get 20+ top-ups in your flask and enjoy for hours. Traditionally, mate was shared ceremonially with the words "Drank, Pass, Fill."
Aside from leaves, there are drinks and tea bags. The herb belongs in the tea aisle or international section. It’s essentially herbal tea, but the tradition makes it special.
Does guayaki yerba mate need to be refrigerated?
Does guayaki mate need to be refrigerated? Mate contains 24 vitamins and minerals, 15 amino acids and antioxidants. Although it has about the same amount of caffeine per serving as coffee, the herb isn’t oily or acid forming, so it’s less likely to cause the stomach issues or jitters some coffee drinkers get. Mate is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken in large amounts or for long periods of time.
When it comes to storing mate, a common question is how long it can be kept before it loses its freshness. The key to preserving the flavor of mate lies in proper storage techniques. One important factor to consider is the storage temperature. Mate should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. I’ve done this for years and it works like a charm.
Guayaki mate is marketed as a healthier alternative to energy drinks. The caffeine content of Mate tea, especially this brand, is high. So, if you have caffeine sensitivity, it’s probably not a good idea to gulp huge amounts of this drink. Guayaki yerba mate contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, polyphenols and amino acids as well as caffeine. Mate gives you an euphoric feeling that’s similar to eating chocolate.
Mate without the flavoring tastes like a nice light tea. It has some earthy and herbal notes to it. The leaves of the mate plant are dried, typically over a fire, and steeped in hot water to make an herbal tea. Mate may be served cold or hot. This beverage is popular in parts of South America. Like black tea, mate contains caffeine.
- Mate has the same amount of caffeine as coffee does, but it does not make the drinker jittery.
- Coffee drinkers suffer a caffeine crash at some point.
- Mate has adaptogenic properties, which means it can regulate the body’s systems.
Can you put mate in the fridge?
When served cold, the drink is called tereré in Guaraní. Mate was first cultivated and used by the indigenous Guaraní people and in some Tupí communities in southern Brazil, prior to European colonization. The leaves of the mate plant contain the same carcinogens found in tobacco and grilled meat. Ingested in small amounts, this is not dangerous, so don’t be concerned about drinking mate in moderation.