Origin
This South American drink is made from the leaves of a type of holly plant native to parts of South America. The Guarani indigenous people were the first to use the plant in medicinal treatments before Europeans arrived. It later became popular with South American cowboys who would drink it for energy and nutrition during long days of work.
The plant only grows in select humid, subtropical regions. The best tasting drink comes from plants grown in shaded rainforest areas. Seeds will only germinate after being ingested by specific native birds, making commercial production outside South America difficult.
This drink has a long cultural history in South American countries. It’s seen by many as a gift from the gods to provide energy and health benefits. Sharing it in a group is an important social custom that brings people together and signifies friendship and respect. Newcomers should adhere to longstanding etiquette rules around passing around the gourd when served in a group.
In recent decades it has grown in popularity around the world. It provides caffeine as an alternative to coffee or tea and may also help with weight loss and blood lipid levels. Most large supermarkets carry some type of this drink, usually in the tea or international food aisle. There are also specialty stores and online retailers.
When selecting products, personal taste preferences matter more than quality. But very low quality can sometimes have an unpleasant flavor. Ultimately this drink is best enjoyed in good company, continuing an ages old South American tradition.
Health Benefits
It contains caffeine, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It provides several health benefits. The caffeine may help boost exercise performance. The antioxidants have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It is made by steeping dried leaves and stems in hot water. It has a stronger flavor than green tea but is not as bitter as black tea. In many South American countries, drinking it is a social tradition shared among friends and family. The ritual of preparing and drinking it is an important cultural practice. It offers a nutritious, energizing alternative to traditional caffeinated beverages.
Availability
It is native to South America and comes mostly from Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil where it is consumed in varying forms. It is possible to grow it outside South America in controlled environments, where the climate is close to that which the plant is familiar with. Whether you’re in the US, UK or Australia, or anywhere else, as long as reasonable control of the climate and conditions is maintained, then it is possible to cultivate it.
It comes from the South American countries whose natural range includes an oval-shaped area that overlaps the northern tip of Argentina, southwestern Brazil, and southeastern Paraguay. The culture transcends borders. “Drinking it is a personal treat or, when it is shared, it is the link that connects everyone, that faithful companion that is there for the whole ride,” The goddess proclaimed the plant a symbol of friendship.
It comes in all different colors, strengths, cuts, and effects variation comes from the way each type is harvested, processed, and aged. Argentinians usually drink it hot or cold depending on the weather. Meeting up in beautiful nature is part of the tradition and ritual gathering there creates a bond between the people. The most common use is in the tea prepared with a calabash gourd and bamboo straw. The bush grows mainly in South America wild. The pH value of the soil must not be more than 5.8 to 6.8.
Effects
It has a steady rise in energy which gives a feel of stimulation. That’s also why it doesn’t give you the jitters, unlike coffee. This effect occurs from caffeine and theobromine. Depending on the brand, you could have a strong bitter flavor, or a slightly milder taste. Bitterness is thanks primarily to the tannins it contains. Some prefer to balance bitterness by adding mint, honey, sugar, milk, or citrus. South Americans safely drink upwards of 1–4 liters daily. In United States, Canada, and Europe, an avid drinker consumes at least 1–2 liters daily. It is commonly consumed as a morning pick-me-up. However, South Americans drink it all day long. We’ve tested dozens of brands, forms, processing methods, intensities and price points. It purifies your body. It also has a diuretic and slightly laxative effect, reducing fluid retention and improving renal function. This helps the body eliminate toxins and purify itself naturally. This diuretic effect is natural. “It raises morale, sustains the muscular system, augments strength and allows one to endure privations. It is a valiant aid.”