Mate is a nutritious tea that can last several months when stored properly. By using a Mate Gourd, storing it in a cool, dry place, away from humidity, you can preserve its flavour and aroma.
Mate gourds are made from the calabash plant. Once fully grown, these gourds are taken to dry. When finished, the gourds are cleaned and hollowed out removing inner plant material.
Shelf Life
The shelf life depends on storage, but can last 1 to 2 years if stored properly in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Check for musty/mouldy smell, discolouration or taste change. Discard if signs are present.
Preparation
To prepare for drinking, fill the gourd 2⁄3 with loose leaves. Tap the loose leaves to one side to create a pit. Moisten the pit with cool water. Insert a bombilla into the pit. Pour small sips of 150°F water into the pit. Share and enjoy.
Wash the mate with boiling water after use. The next day, Fill the gourd and add warm water. Rinse it, leave it dry.
For us at ECOTEAS, the mate gourd is the beginning and end. Yes, it requires attention and skill. If we open to its magic, the gourd can teach us. It can help us slow down and connect.
Thanks to its caffeine content, yerba mate is known for its energizing effects. The effects can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on how much is consumed. The stimulating effects may start to fade after about 2 hours, however this will depend on individual tolerance levels.
One way to make sure that you get the most is to avoid overdiffusing the leaves. Overdiffusing can lead to the release of more tannins which can make it taste bitter and lose its stimulating properties faster.
At 85 mg of caffeine per cup, it contains less caffeine than coffee but more than tea. Therefore, just like any other caffeinated food or beverage, it may increase energy levels and make you feel less tired.
Caffeine effects can be felt within minutes and usually last around 2 to 5 hours. Factors like age, liver health, other medications affect how quickly it’s metabolized and excreted.
How long do gourds last?
Gourds won’t last forever. Fresh gourds last a few weeks. Cured gourds can last years.
The leaves are used to make a bitter, earthy tea called mate. Mate is a popular drink in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. It contains caffeine and antioxidants. When stored in an airtight container, away from heat, light, and moisture, the leaves can last 1-2 years before losing flavor and nutrients. Check package expiration dates as shelf life varies. Loose leaf lasts 1 year unopened, while tea bags have shorter shelf life. Refrigeration extends shelf life for months. Freezing also works, but may cause freezer burn. Factors include leaf quality, storage method, packaging, exposure each time opened.