What is Yerba Mate?
The plant is native to southern parts of South America. The leaves of the plant contain the same carcinogens found in tobacco and grilled meat. Ingested in small amounts, this is not dangerous, so don’t be concerned about drinking mate tea in moderation.
Yerba Mate Components
There are 4 main components that make up drinking yerba mate tea:
- Gourd – The basic cup (drinking device) is made from a gourd
- Bombilla – The metal straw (traditionally silver)
- Dried, chopped and ground leaves
- Hot water – Added to the gourd with leaves
Traditional Preparation
The traditional way to prepare and drink the tea is in a gourd, known as the mate. Drinking it this way is a big part of both the rural and urban culture in Argentina, Paraguay, parts of Chile and Brazil.
After being dried, ground and packed; the leaves can be easily purchased in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Brazil and Chile. The tea is the most popular beverage in Argentina, surpassing coffee and tea.
Taste
At first, the flavor can be intense and overwhelming. But over time, your palate becomes accustomed to the tea and you can start tasting a variety of earthy, grassy and buttery notes.
If you experience side effects like nausea, vomiting or heart palpitations after consuming the tea, then you should reduce your caffeine intake. The tea likely won’t pose threats for healthy adults who occasionally drink it.
Taragui is one of the oldest brands. This Argentinian company ensures high-quality mate. The taste is bitter, smoky with scent of leather and mildly acidic aftertaste.
How to Prepare and Drink
The metal straw strains out the leaf pieces. The tea can be enjoyed plain or mixed with mint, berries, honey, or milk.
To prepare, fill the gourd halfway with leaves. Insert the metal straw to strain. Add hot water, but not boiling. Drink the first few sips, then add more hot water until flavor fades. Share with friends.
Health Benefits
The caffeine provides an energizing effect that’s more gradual and longer-lasting than coffee.
Studies suggest healthy adults can safely drink up to 1.5 liters of yerba mate tea made with 3 grams of leaves per cup, for 60 days. Drinking the tea is not linked with health issues for most people in moderate amounts.