The drink is a traditional South American drink made by steeping dried leaves of the yerba mate plant in hot water. It has a unique earthy flavor and is known for its energizing properties. Originally from countries like Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, it has gained popularity worldwide in recent years due to its health benefits and cultural significance.
In the United States, it can be found in some grocery stores, ethnic markets, and online stores. Major grocery chains like Kroger sell brands of the herb tea bags and drinks. International or Brazilian/Paraguayan food markets also often carry dried leaves, teas, and ready-to-drink beverages. When checking grocery store aisles, products are usually stocked in either the tea section or international foods aisle.
Online stores provide the widest selection of options that can be shipped directly to your door. Websites offer an extensive catalogue of different brands, leaf styles, teas, and drinks at affordable prices. Their large inventory and reliability have made them a top choice for lovers in countries where it isn’t as easily accessible.
In South America, drinking the herb is a beloved social tradition centered around sharing and community. The drink is routinely passed around a circle of friends and family who sip from the same gourd using a special straw called a bombilla. The person who prepares and serves is in charge of keeping it filled with hot water and leading the ritual. There is unique etiquette around who gets served first, how many sips each person takes, and how the gourd gets passed around. Following this etiquette shows respect for traditions and creates a welcoming, communal experience for all to enjoy Argentina’s famous national drink.
I’ve been drinking the herb for over 3 years now and from my experience, there are only a handful of stores worth buying from. Unless you live in South America, your only option is to buy online. You can try visiting your local stores but don’t be surprised if you can’t find anything. Whether you’re looking for more brands to try, the best prices/deals, or a store able to ship to your country so you can finally get a taste of this plant, the stores below have you covered. PampaDirect is my favorite yerba mate store in the world. If you’re not finding us where you’d like to, fill out the form below so we can help spread our love for good products.
The traditional gourd is made from a calabash squash. The drink is a plant. It’s part of the holly genus species found in South America. Its leaves are brewed to make a stimulating drink. The drink is caffeinated. It’s referred to as the “drink of the Gods”. In some regions, it’s even more popular than coffee.
The bombilla is a straw with a filter at the tip. Bombillas come in different sizes and shapes. They have different types of filters.
The yerba is generally composed of leaves, powder and stems. All coming from the plant.
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A yerbera holds your yerba. Yerberas are typically made from tin or aluminum. They have a retractable spout at the top. This makes pouring your herb easier.
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With an airtight container, moisture and odors can’t seep in. This decreases mold growth. OXO POP Canisters are extremely simple to use. Just press the button to release the lid. Place the lid back on to seal it. Then stash it away from light in a cool, dry place. It will always taste fresh. A medium size can store a whole kilo of yerba mate.
The drink is consumed in parts of South America. It has many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Drinking the herb socially connects people. Sharing the drink is a tradition. There are rules for passing the mate gourd around a group.
I sometimes drink the herb in the afternoon if I want an energy boost after lunch. The intense flavor keeps you alert. Sharing helps me make new friends.
Quality grows in humid rainforests. As its popularity increases, more is commercially farmed. It has more antioxidants than green tea.
Online stores sell globally. PampaDirect is a recommended store with good prices and worldwide shipping.
Preparing at home is easy. Add leaves to a gourd or press and pour in hot water. You can also buy tea bags. It can be served hot or cold.
The shrub is native to South America. Its seeds need to be digested by specific birds to germinate. This makes farming difficult, making the herb precious.
It tastes slightly grassy, different from green tea. It has a neutral flavor good for substituting coffee or tea. The caffeine level is generally between tea and coffee.
Too much can cause irritability or insomnia in some people. But moderate consumption is safe. The drink has a long cultural history in parts of South America.