What are the actives in yerba mate?

Mate tea contains caffeine which provides an energy boost. It also contains antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. Mate can improve mental function by stimulating dopamine production which enhances mood. Mate exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting enzymes and pathways involved in inflammation. This can also aid in weight loss. The many active compounds in mate such … Read more

Yerba Mate Export Market

Brazil is the world’s largest exporter of mate, with over 50 million kilograms exported worth more than $87 million in 2020. Argentina follows Brazil exporting over $85 million. Paraguay exports half by weight of Argentina. The main mate exporters include Germany and the Netherlands which import from Brazil. Uruguay imports the most mate mainly from … Read more

Is mate high in tannins?

Mate contains high levels of tannins, giving it a strong, slightly bitter flavor similar to coffee or black tea. The tannins contribute to its earthy, nutty, chocolatey taste. Higher temperatures and longer steeping times when brewing mate can increase tannin extraction and lead to more bitterness. Compared to coffee, the South American beverage provides a … Read more

Growing Conditions for Mate

Mate grows in the subtropical region of South America. Mainly Argentina, Southern Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. Mate is part of the Aquifoliaceae family. Only two or three variants within this family are used for mate. Germinating Mate Growing mate from seeds can take up to a year to germinate. Seeds need a cold stratification process … Read more

Is yerba mate better for you than coffee?

The herbal tea is made from the leaves of a South American plant. It has caffeine, antioxidants, and other healthy substances. Coffee also has caffeine and antioxidants. Caffeine Content The South American beverage has about 75-80 milligrams of caffeine per cup. Coffee has around 95 milligrams per cup. So coffee has a little more caffeine. … Read more

What is the best material for mate cups?

Types of mate cups The traditional infusion is connected to the container used to drink it: the mate. The mate has become an icon and heirloom. We show the types of mates and pros and cons of each. The most traditional is the gourd. Over time, mates of various materials emerged, some more durable and … Read more

How to Make Strong Yerba Mate Tea

Brewing Tips To achieve maximum caffeine extraction, steep the leaves for 5-10 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the caffeine kick. It has higher caffeine levels than most teas. Its popularity and unique taste make it a beverage worth exploring. In Argentina, where it is consumed daily by millions of people, the ideal water … Read more

Origins: South American Herbal Tea

This South American herbal tea is from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. The leaves are dried and infused in hot water. It is typically consumed from a gourd and sipped with a metal straw. It has the same caffeine level as coffee but does not make the drinker jittery. It has adaptogenic properties … Read more

How does a mate cup work?

The cup is usually half full of mate tea. The gourds are made of metal, glass, wood, or clay. Everyone says thanks before drinking it and gives it back afterwards. The brewer refills the hot water and continues giving it to the next person in clockwise order. Types of Cups Cups are traditionally made from … Read more

How to make herbal drink in a coffee press?

Prepare mate in a french press Just as you would coffee. Use 1 tablespoon per cup, fill the press with hot water, then plunge. For step-by-step instructions, click here. You don’t need a gourd or bombilla to enjoy mate. Any machine you use for coffee or other teas will work. However, drinking yerba mate with … Read more