Can the South American holly be grown in the US? The South American holly is an evergreen tree that grows mainly in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. It can grow up to 18 meters (60 feet) tall. The plant requires a warm, humid climate. After several years, the leaves and stems are hand-picked and dried … Read more
The yerba mate plant is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can provide energy, weight loss, improved digestion, and other health benefits. Indigenous peoples consumed the infusion for centuries. Today, people worldwide drink it for its gentle caffeine boost and health benefits in the traditional ritual of sharing a gourd passed from person to … Read more
Mate contains many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It also has some caffeine, providing an energy boost. Consuming mate may positively impact weight management, focus, and heart health. However, high intake can cause side effects like insomnia and digestive issues. It’s recommended to limit consumption to 3-4 cups or 300-400 mg of caffeine daily. I told … Read more
Yerba mate is a tea made from the leaves of a South American bush. It has health benefits but can also have negative side effects if consumed in large amounts. Contents Health Benefits Side Effects Safety Good for Depression? Why So Addictive? Health Benefits The herbal drink contains caffeine and antioxidants. It may help boost … Read more
Origins and Culture The South American plant is an ancient herb often referred to as the "tea of the gods." It is made from the Ilex paraguariensis plant using both the leaves and twigs. After harvest, the leaves are dried over a fire. The herb contains high levels of tannins giving it a strength of … Read more
This infusion is traditionally drunk from a container called a gourd or calabash. You sip it from a metallic or wooden straw with a filter so the leaf pieces don’t go through. The flavor resembles green tea. It’s bitter with a grassy flavor. The leaves are dried, chopped, ground into a powder, then drunk with … Read more
The Ilex paraguariensis plant is made by steeping dried leaves in hot water. Adjust the amount according to your taste. Some people prefer a stronger flavor and use more leaves. Others prefer a milder taste and use less. The traditional method recommends using 1 tablespoon per 8 ounces of water. However, personal taste plays a … Read more
The mate cup or hollow gourd is usually half full of mate tea. The gourds are made of metal, glass, wood, or clay. The brewer passes the gourd to each person in turn, in a circle. Everyone says thanks before drinking it and gives it back afterwards. If you’re looking for unique cup designs, there … Read more
This South American plant is traditionally consumed in central and southern regions of South America, primarily in Paraguay, as well as in Argentina, Uruguay, southern Brazil, the Chaco region of Bolivia and southern Chile. The leaves were first cultivated and used by the indigenous Guaraní people and in some Tupí communities in southern Brazil, prior … Read more
History and folklore The herbal tea is an herb native to South America. Originally defended by the Guarani, who considered it a divine drink. The origins of the herbal tea are filled with folklore. Today, this delicious drink is still being enjoyed all over the world, especially in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil. The herbal … Read more
