The Yerba Mate Plant and Caffeinated Beverage

Where is yerba mate found? The caffeinated, tea-like beverage is brewed from the leaves of a South American holly tree native to the forests of Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil. Indigenous peoples consumed the herbal drink for centuries as an energizing drink with medicinal properties before it spread across regions in the 16th century. Today, sharing … Read more

How Much Mate Should I Drink Per Day?

Caffeine and Pregnancy It contains caffeine. Pregnant women can drink 1-2 cups per day. Research shows it poses no danger to pregnancy. Too much caffeine may restrict fetal growth. Regional Consumption Levels In South America, people safely drink 1–4 liters daily. In North America and Europe, avid drinkers consume 1–2 liters daily. How much you … Read more

Yerba Mate: History and Significance in Argentina

The yerba mate herb The yerba mate herb is native to South America. The seeds apparently only germinate after being digested by native birds. This makes commercial cultivation more difficult and the herb more precious. Traditional varieties and flavors Traditional mate varies depending on the region. Some Argentinian brands can be strong and robust in … 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