What is the yerba mate tradition?
The South American herb is native to South America used to make the national drink of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Southern Brazil. Argentinians usually drink it for breakfast or just before sunset, hot or cold depending on the weather. The infusion became popular in these countries and ended up in our tea cups after being discovered by indigenous peoples who used it mostly for physical stamina and medicinal purposes. It was known as an “herb from the gods”.
Syrians and Lebanese prepare the drink differently than South Americans. They add the herb and hot water to a gourd and then stir it, making it more of a tea infusion. South Americans create a little mound on the side of the gourd so flavor is released slowly over time, and they pour hot water only on the other side without stirring.
Sharing the infusion forges emotional links between people in Argentina. More than a habit, getting together to matear takes Argentinians back to their roots. The drink is important in Argentina’s culture and homes, consumed more than coffee 6 to 1.
The gourd and bombilla used to prepare the infusion have been passed down for generations. After filling the gourd with the herb, hot water is added to soak the leaves and prepare the infusion. The first brew is tasted before it is passed around a circle for all to share. This is an important tradition still seen today.
The South American herb has tons of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals not found in other drinks. It makes you more alert, focused and awakened without the caffeine crash you may get from coffee. It’s the perfect morning drink without needing added sugar.
Indigenous Origins and Folklore
The South American herb is used to make the national drink of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Southern Brazil. It was discovered by the indigenous peoples of Paraguay and Southern Brazil. It was known as an herb from the gods used for physical stamina and medicinal purposes. Today, it is culturally linked to the Druze community in Syria and Lebanon who maintain the culture and practice of the infusion.
The South American herb is typically drunk in the mornings. Flavors like sugar, spices or fruit peels are sometimes added. In warm weather the hot water is sometimes replaced by lemonade.
The South American herb plant comes from the Ilex tree native to the forests of South America. It has been consumed for centuries by the indigenous peoples. The youngest and greenest leaves are collected, dried and placed in a mate bowl made of ceramic or dried pumpkin to prepare the infusion.
Culture and Symbolism
The South American herb is deeply rooted in the culture of countries like Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay where it is consumed by many households. It symbolizes friendship and hospitality and is typically served in groups in a traditional hollowed gourd and metal straw known as a bombilla.
What is the spiritual meaning of the South American herb?
The Guarani, a native South American tribe believed the herb to be a gift from the gods. They farmed, but the soil was easily depleted. So every few years they moved their fields and homes. According to legend, an old, ill farmer decided to wait for his life’s end alone rather than move again.
Health Benefits
The South American herb is made from a type of holly. Its leaves are dried, chopped, and ground into a mixture resembling genmaicha. The leaves contain caffeine, making the infusion popular worldwide. The herb may also have antioxidants that slow aging and reduce inflammation.
History of the Gourd
What is the history of the gourd used for the South American herb? The yerba mate has been an object of worship, barter, trade, and ritual. The Guarani used the leaves of the South American herb as a brew. The Spanish and the Jesuits adopted this brew in the 1600s. They toasted, milled, and dried the leaves as is typically done today.
Indigenous tribes believed drinking the South American herb cleanses soul and brings harmony. It became a symbol of gatherings among family and friends at occasions or simply enjoyed together. Symbols represent the culture and values of people who drink it – friendship, hospitality, respect for nature, sharing experiences, enjoying life’s pleasures.