Harvesting

After the quick searing, leaves must be properly dried, until they lose almost all of its moisture. This process also reduces the weight, such as 100 kilograms of freshly harvested leaves yield about 30 to 36 kilograms of dried product. Although it is generally appreciated through the southern regions of South America, the way it … Read more

Does this tea get you buzzed?

Mate is a species of the holly genus (Ilex), with the botanical name Ilex paraguariensis. It was first cultivated and used by the indigenous Guaraní people and in some Tupí communities in southern Brazil, prior to European colonization. This tea is used to make a beverage known as mate. When served cold, the drink is … Read more

Yerba Mate – A Popular Tea

Is yerba mate organic? The South American plant is brewed to make a caffeinated drink. Referred to as the “drink of the Gods”, it is even more popular than coffee in some regions. Wild grown maté is most desirable, because it is free from growth chemicals, making it organic. It is also possible to cultivate … Read more

The History and Tradition of Mate

When did people start drinking mate? Mate is a caffeinated drink from South America. Indigenous tribes originally used mate leaves to make an invigorating tea. The leaves are dried, shredded and steeped in hot water to make the tea. Mate is especially popular in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil. It has a bitter, herbal flavor. … Read more

History

What’s wrong with yerba mate? Maté is an herbal tea traditionally consumed in South America. Like black or green tea, it has caffeine. Health Benefits Drinking yerba mate isn’t linked to health problems in most adults. Some studies suggest that the tea may have helpful effects on cholesterol, weight loss, the heart, inflammation and cancer … Read more

Mate Origins and Traditions

Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is a plant from the holly family that grows in South America, especially Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. For centuries now, people have used dried leaves of the plant as tea or infusion. Studies have shown that mate contains antioxidants and can boost energy levels, improve digestion, and support weight loss. The … Read more

The History and Significance of Mate in Argentina

Why do Argentinians drink mate? Mate is a popular drink in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and parts of Brazil. It is made by steeping dried leaves called yerba in hot water and is drunk from a gourd using a metal straw. Mate has a long history in South American culture, dating back to indigenous groups like … Read more

How to Use a Gourd for Yerba Mate

What You’ll Need By the time you’re done reading this post, you’ll know exactly how to prepare mate like a professional cebador (yerba mate server). The traditional method of drinking mate requires delicate care and attention. But you’re rewarded with a delicious infusion. You’ll need a few tools… A gourd (also called a mate). All … Read more

Does this tea give a lot of energy?

What is this tea? This South American beverage provides an energy boost similar to coffee. But it has less caffeine and more nutrients than coffee. This tea is well known for providing a smooth, clean energy boost. Compared to coffee, tea, cocoa, and guarana, this drink reportedly delivers the most balanced energy increase. This tea … Read more