Yerba mate basics
Yerba mate is a species of holly native to South America. It has a long history of traditional use as a tea by indigenous peoples. Today, it remains a popular social and cultural beverage in several South American countries.
The traditional method of drying the leaves involves smoke drying. This produces a tea with a bold, smoky flavor. However, the smoking process also creates trace carcinogens.
Safety
- Commercial brands use varying levels of smoking to dry the leaves. Increased exposure to carcinogens poses potential health risks. Still, it likely contains far lower levels than grilled meats or tobacco. Moderate lifelong consumption in healthy adults appears relatively safe according to most research. Those with liver conditions should exercise caution with this herbal drink.
- Our production method instead relies on heating the leaves solely with warm, clean air. This smoke-free approach creates a milder flavored tea with no risk from carcinogen exposure.
Smoked vs. unsmoked
Some brands smoke the leaves before drying them. This gives a smoky flavor. Other brands use hot air instead of smoke to dry the leaves.
| Smoked | Unsmoked |
|---|---|
| Keeps more nutrients | Milder flavor |
| Bolder flavor | Lower health risks |
The taste is intense and earthy. It is bolder than green tea.
The flavor varies greatly from region to region.
It tastes somewhat like green tea, with hints of tobacco and oak. The flavor is an acquired taste.
Growing conditions
Check a zone map to see if your area is suitable for growing this plant.
The yerba mate plant is an evergreen shrub with thick, dark green oval leaves.