Where is it found?
It is a plant found in South America. Its leaves are used to make a caffeinated drink consumed in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Indigenous peoples in these areas have drunk it for centuries. It can now be found worldwide – in shops, online and in some mainstream grocery stores. It’s gaining popularity globally due to its caffeine content and health properties.
In Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina it is sold in tea bags as "mate cocido" or simply "mate". It’s often consumed with milk, lime juice or pastries. Argentina is the world’s largest consumer – over 90% of Argentines drink it regularly. It’s considered an important part of their culture.
Although it originates from South America, it can be cultivated elsewhere. But growing it on a large scale outside its native climate poses some challenges. Inside its home region it grows wild, but the plant needs particular climate conditions which can be replicated to some extent.
When drinking it, preferences for sweetening and flavoring vary. Some like it natural while others add peppermint or citrus flavors. Sharing is customary in South America. The ritual of preparing and drinking it together bonds friends. Tourists often find the bitter taste challenging initially. But its aficionados treasure both its stimulating quality and social symbolism.
Health Benefits
Is it good for you?
It is a traditional South American drink made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. You drink it with a metal straw, called bombilla. A thermos with hot water around 80 degrees Celsius is always ready to refill the wooden and metal cup called a guampa.
It contains 85 mg of caffeine for every 8 fluid ounces. That is slightly less caffeine than coffee, but it also provides energy from antioxidants. It is a stimulant for mind and body. People increasingly use it instead of energy drinks.
The oldest producer is Taragui, an Argentinian company operating for over 100 years. Their product is simple, slightly acidic with no sweetness. It retains flavor well for several refills, just not too many.
For some South Americans, it is consumed all day, from morning to evening, sometimes even before bed. This much caffeine is not recommended. People with irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit intake.
Though studies indicate people drinking large amounts over long periods have increased cancer risk, occasional drinking likely poses little risk for healthy adults.
The words "Drink, Pass, Fill" represent the traditional ceremony of sharing it. Aside from modern germ concerns, it facilitates community bonding.
Global Availability
Is it only in California?
It is a herbal tea made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant native to South America. The indigenous Guarani people first cultivated it before European colonization. Now it is commonly consumed in parts of South America, particularly Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, and Chile. It is traditionally drunk from a gourd using a metal straw that filters out leaf fragments. It holds cultural significance in these regions and plays a central role in social gatherings.
The plant thrives in the shade and humid climate of the South American rainforests. Leaves grown in this environment have the best flavor and nutrients. Mate has a unique caffeinated effect that is both stimulating and relaxing. It contains less caffeine than coffee or green tea and is considered non-addictive. Mate is also believed to have health benefits.
Caffeine Content and Effects
Does it give you a buzz?
It is an herbal tea from the leaves and twigs of the South American mate plant. Like coffee and green tea, it contains caffeine. It provides a steady energy boost linked to increased alertness and concentration. It gives a "clean" stimulation – energetic without jitteriness.
The taste depends on how it’s processed. It can be bitter from tannins. Some brands have a smoky flavor. Argentinians commonly drink it bitter.
It grows in parts of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Sharing is a social tradition. Its geography shapes the flavor and culture.
The moderate caffeine may also boost mental function.