yerba mate is a traditional South American drink made from the leaves and stems of the yerba mate plant. This beverage has been enjoyed for centuries and it’s known for its unique earthy flavor. One question that arises when brewing yerba mate is how much to use per cup. The answer depends on personal preference and desired strength.
Like black tea, yerba contains caffeine. This beverage may be served cold or hot.
Popular yerba mate tea brands
When it comes to pre-packaged tea bags, Ecoteas yerba is a top contender. Its organically-sourced leaves are grown in the rainforests of South America.
The Playadito offers a distinct experience for tea enthusiasts seeking the best for beginners. This product leans more towards a stronger, bitter taste but is also noted for its subtle sweetness and herbal tones. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, appealing to those who seek a health-boosting beverage.
Guayaki yerba contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, polyphenols and amino acids as well as caffeine. Traditional ceremonies would pass around the drink in a gourd, symbolizing hospitality. If you are not sure which Guayakí flavor is for you, yerba has an herby and earthy flavor.
Drinking yerba involves a few steps. Understanding the measuring techniques is crucial for a perfect cup. Traditionally, yerba is prepared using a gourd and a bombilla, a metal straw with a filtered end. The amount you use per cup depends on several factors, including strength, cup size, and taste. On average, most people use 2-3 tablespoons per cup. However, some may use more or less. Personal preference plays a role in determining the amount.
Much like tea, yerba contains enzymes that oxidize after picking, slowing decay. An image showcases rustic wooden tea spoon scooping loose leaves into a ceramic cup.
I’ve spent time experimenting to achieve that perfect cup. It’s a delicate dance, finding the balance between flavor and strength. The traditional straw has a built-in filter. Now, how long can I re-use leaves? Seasoned drinkers reuse leaves several times a day!
- Start slowly with moderate amounts until ideal quantity and frequency. Too much caffeine can cause headaches, anxiety, insomnia and blood pressure issues.
- Ensuring appropriate water temperature is important to avoid long term mouth and esophagus harm.
Yerba is an herb like oregano and mint. The Earth abounds with consumable herbs that we generously enjoy without hesitation. Mate appears to be in a group of herbs known as adaptogens.
Guayaki is marketed as a healthier alternative to energy drinks. The caffeine content, especially this brand, is high. As with most ‘herbal’ teas, it’s best to limit consumption.
The studies are still limited on the long term effects. Locals in South America drink 1- 4 litres a day. I wouldn’t recommend drinking that much, especially at the beginning if you aren’t used to that much caffeine.
There are 4 main components that make up drinking:
1) Gourd
2) Metal Straw
3) Leaves
4) Hot water.
The gourd is the basic cup. Instead of straining the tea, is placed into a gourd and a metal straw strains the leaves so you can easily suck up just the brewed tea.
So while keeping caffeine intake moderate, tea can be an excellent addition to a healthy lifestyle. Brew up a cup using the traditional method or a tea bag and experience this treasured South American drink.