This South American beverage made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant native to the subtropical regions of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. The drink is prepared by steeping the dried leaves and twigs in hot water and consumed through a special straw that filters out loose leaves. It is rich in caffeine, antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. In addition to its health benefits, it has an important cultural role in South America where sharing the drink is part of hospitality and friendship traditions.
The Jesuits were pioneers in the large-scale cultivation and commercialization of the herb in colonial times, although they preferred to drink it in tea bags rather than with bombillas and gourds in the traditional style. The gauchos spread traditions further as they settled throughout Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and southern Brazil. They loved drinking mate while living their nomadic, ranch-working lifestyle.
It remains a very popular national drink in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and southern Brazil today. Market data shows growing domestic and international demand. The herb used to prepare the tea grows wild as well as being cultivated on plantations without chemicals. Organic yerba mate is considered the healthiest option.
The Middle Eastern countries of Syria and Lebanon are the largest importers of it in the world today. The tradition of drinking yerba mate tea was brought to those countries by immigrants from Syria and Lebanon who lived in South America before returning home.
This caffeinated drink made from the dried leaves of a South American holly tree. It has a long history among Indigenous groups who considered it a gift from the gods and prized it for medicinal qualities. Today, it remains deeply connected to the culture where sharing with others forges emotional bonds.
Argentinians consume it in over 90% of households, drinking on average 14 pounds per person annually. They often drink it in social gatherings in beautiful, natural settings. A gourd containing mate and a specialized metal straw gets passed around to create connection. It is so versatile – it can be consumed hot, cold, sweet, bitter or flavored. The ritual of preparing, refilling and sharing can continue for hours.
It is a traditional drink made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. This holly plant grows wild but is also cultivated on plantations. The indigenous peoples revered it for its many health benefits.
- It contains beneficial compounds. It may decrease cholesterol, protect the liver, stimulate the brain, and benefit the heart.
- Yerba mate is one of the few plants that naturally contains caffeine. It can be consumed hot or cold. It is a flavorful, caffeinated alternative to coffee or tea.
- Some studies show it may boost immunity, promote weight loss, build strong bones, and keep the heart healthy. It may also have anti-cancer effects.
The taste is bitter and tart initially. You can sweeten it or add dried fruit. Experiment to find the you enjoy most. While the coffee taste is more preferred by some, provides a nice energy boost and health benefits. It contains more vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants than coffee.