Mate is a species of the holly genus, native to parts of South America. The leaves are used to make a bitter, caffeinated drink called mate. It has a complex flavor and is often consumed socially. The health effects of mate are like black tea. It may provide benefits for fatigue, inflammation, cholesterol, and more, … Read more
Hot Mate and Cancer Risk What studies have found is it’s the water temperature, not the drink itself. Consuming fluids at hot temperatures in the 158-185oF (70-85oC) range seem to increase the risk of esophageal cancer. Considering the high consumption (1-3 liters a day) and frequency (daily) in South America, esophageal cancer is a major … Read more
What kind of gourd is used for the herbal tea? You can make the South American drink just how you make any other tea. Simply use 1 tablespoon of leaves per 8 ounces of water, let it steep for 3-5 minutes, and presto! The gourd, typically made from a hollowed-out squash or gourd fruit, offers … Read more
How many spoons of yerba mate? The herbal drink contains less caffeine than coffee but more than tea. It offers health benefits similar to coffee. On average, a tablespoon has about 30-50 milligrams of caffeine, half that of coffee. So for a caffeine boost, it is a good coffee alternative. The herbal drink is a … Read more
This caffeinated infusion is a popular drink in South America. It is a symbol of friendship and bonding. Indigenous cultures embraced it in their traditions. Sharing the drink shows respect. Origins and History It is native to South America. It is used to make the national drink of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Southern Brazil. It … Read more
Mate can last several months. Its freshness depends on storage. Shelf life is affected by leaf quality, storage container type, and environment. Like dried plant products, it deteriorates over time. Exposure to heat, light, moisture and air causes leaves to spoil. Shelf life depends on storage. It can last 1-2 years stored properly in a … Read more
Mate is a traditional drink in Argentina. Argentinians usually drink it in the morning or before sunset, hot or cold. Sharing mate forges links between people, taking them back to their roots. The caffeine-rich drink is made from the dried leaves of a South American shrub. Although drunk in groups, mate can now be found … Read more
Mate is a tree native to South America. Indigenous tribes first cultivated it. Today, the herb grows in parts of northern Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. These regions have humid, warm climates that mate needs. To grow it, seeds are planted in March and April. Seedlings are moved to a nursery. Locals share mate … Read more
Ingredients Mate leaves Mate gourd or cup Metal straw or bombilla 150-160°F hot water Mate leaves are traditionally consumed in central and southern regions of South America, primarily in Paraguay, as well as in Argentina, Uruguay, southern and central-western Brazil, the Chaco region of Bolivia and southern Chile. Mate tea provides a unique, flavorful experience … Read more
Yerba Mate Brand Comparison What’s the best yerba mate brand? Besides, with four different types of yerba mate and hundreds of different brands to try, it’s hard to choose. But whichever it is, there’s one thing you don’t want… And that’s a bad tasting yerba. So to avoid this from happening, I created a list … Read more
