Can yerba mate be grown in the US?
Native Growth
The plant is native to South America. The leaves are used to make a tea called mate. It has been consumed for centuries by indigenous communities as a social and medicinal drink. Recently, the herb has become popular worldwide due to its flavor and health benefits.
The yerba mate plant grows in the subtropical regions of Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. It thrives naturally in humid rainforests. As demand increases, the herb is now also cultivated on plantations, although the flavor quality is often lower.
Health Benefits
The herb contains nearly 200 active compounds like vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It provides an energy boost and is considered more balanced than coffee, cocoa, guarana, tea and kola nut.
Today, the herb is often consumed in teas, energy drinks, weight loss supplements and cocktails. It comes in different colors, tastes, strengths and effects based on how it was harvested, processed and aged. Popular brands are from Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Brazil, each with its own distinct flavor.
As the herb gains popularity, some companies are working on market-driven reforestation models. They partner with local farmers to ethically source organic, fair trade produce while restoring cleared rainforest lands, using the herb as an economic and ecological crop. This ensures the long-term sustainability of yerba mate.
Traditional Use
The yerba mate tree has many uses. Its naturally caffeinated leaves are traditionally dried and then infused in a calabash (small container) using a bombilla (filtering straw) by adding hot water. The origins of yerba mate drinking are rooted in the indigenous cultures of southern South America.
Drinking very hot yerba mate is connected to higher cancer risks, possibly due to carcinogens. Too much caffeine can also cause side effects. Pregnant women should speak to doctors before drinking the herb, as caffeine increases miscarriage and low birth weight risks. Despite potential side effects, yerba mate has numerous health benefits when consumed in moderation at proper temperatures. It’s rich in antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds.
Production
Argentina is one of the largest producers and exporters of yerba mate in the world. Research and development is an ongoing part of the production. Both maté and tea plants are propagated from seed or cutting, in a controlled environment. They also have an experienced team of tasters, who determine when it is ready to make its way to the consumer.
The plant requires specific growing conditions, including warm temperatures and acidic soil. The yerba mate plantations are located in rural areas, surrounded by lush greenery and open fields. Farmers use traditional methods to harvest the leaves by hand or with tools that cut the branches at the right angle.
The yerba mate leaf is produced from an evergreen plant native to only a few regions in South America. When grown in the wild, its leaves are harvested only every other year. In a controlled environment, the leaves grow more quickly, so they are harvested once each winter.
Taragui Yerba Mate is one of the oldest on the market. With over a century of experience, this Argentinian company ensures high-quality mate. The taste is bitter, smoky with a scent of leather and a mildly acidic aftertaste.
Best Yerba Mate Brands
In our quest to identify the best yerba mate, we’ve tested dozens of brands, exploring forms, processing methods, flavors, and prices. Here are the best yerba mate:
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Best Yerba Mate Overall: U.S. Wellness Naturals Yerba Mate Tea
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Runner-up Yerba Mate: Rosamonte Special Selection Yerba Mate Tea
The leaves contain sugars including xylose, glucose, fructose and galactose. While the sugar amount varies, it’s generally low compared to other drinks. Yerba mate has a two-year shelf life when stored properly.