Overview
This species of holly native to South America is commonly used to prepare a caffeinated drink known as mate. The leaves and stems are dried, chopped and steeped in hot water, similar to tea. Drinking mate is a popular social tradition in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and southern Brazil.
The taste is often described as grassy, bitter and smoky. The flavor can vary depending on where it was grown, how it was processed and personal taste preferences. Some people enjoy the strong, earthy flavor while others prefer milder varieties. Flavored mate with hints of mint, citrus or berry is also popular.
Choosing a Brand
When choosing a brand, you’ll want to consider your flavor preferences as well as the sustainability and ethics of how it’s produced. High quality organic options tend to be more expensive but are often worth it. Well-known brands offer high quality organic options at reasonable prices. More niche brands produce excellent traditional mate as well.
Caffeine and Potential Health Benefits
The caffeine content is similar to coffee or strong tea. It tends to have a smoother effect thanks to its mix of caffeine plus antioxidants and nutrients. Some research suggests health benefits related to increased energy, mental focus and weight loss support but more study is still needed.
Cultural Significance
Mate is deeply ingrained into the culture of Argentina, Uruguay and other South American countries. Sharing mate with others fosters community and connection. The national drink, mate drinking is passed down through generations and has inspired art and poetry. For locals, the tradition means even more than the drink itself.
Argentina has the highest consumption, averaging 14 pounds per person annually across 90% of households. Argentinians drink it throughout the day, hot or iced, depending on weather. Beyond habit, sharing mate connects people to their roots.
Growing Popularity
With growing online availability, it is more accessible worldwide. Its antioxidant content surpasses green tea. By improving cholesterol and potentially preventing atherosclerosis, it benefits cardiovascular health. Brands vary from strong, earthy blends to fruity, floral varieties.
Additional Research Findings
Research shows this herb increases energy, burns fat, and aids workout recovery. With caffeine similar to coffee and antioxidants, it makes an effective pre-workout drink. For purification, its mild diuretic effect improves renal function and fluid balance.
- It is native to South America, mainly grown in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay.
- It grows up to 18 meters (60 feet) tall and is evergreen.
- It became very popular after the Spanish colonization in the 17th century.
- The Guaraní people recognized its medicinal properties and have been cultivating and drinking mate for thousands of years.
Argentinian Traditions
You can find refreshing recipes in Argentina using yerba mate as an ingredient in desserts, beverages, including beer and liquor, and even cheese. Argentinians have some old traditions related to preparing yerba mate tea, like caramelized mate, made by putting hot coals in a pot and sprinkling mate leaves to start smoking.
Argentina consumes up to 14 pounds per capita yearly. It is ingested in 90% of households and more than a pound is in the basic food basket. Argentinians usually drink it for breakfast or before sunset, hot or cold depending on weather. As things evolve, mate has become common to drink from cans, bottles, and energy drinks, convenient to drink anytime.