Why is yerba mate drunk in a gourd?

The traditional mate gourd The drink is prepared in a gourd vessel called mate. The gourd gets nearly filled with yerba, and hot, not boiling, water is added. The most common way involves carefully arranging the yerba before adding water. The gourd gets filled half to three-quarters with yerba first. Argentinians drink up to 14 … Read more

Can you steep Ilex paraguariensis tea too long?

Mate is a plant from the holly family that grows in South America, especially Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. For centuries, people have used dried leaves of the plant as tea or infusion. Brewing Instructions The recommended water temperature for making the herbal drink is 150-175 degrees Fahrenheit. The exact temperature depends on the type … Read more

Does mate help you stay awake?

The tea contains caffeine. I use it to boost my energy before exercise or work. But can you sleep after drinking it in the evening? The caffeine might prevent falling asleep. It can negatively affect sleep quality. Then why do some say drinking mate helps them relax or sleep better? This requires more discussion. Let’s … Read more

How Much Mate to Water?

Mate is a traditional South American drink made by steeping dried leaves and twigs of a holly tree-like plant (ilex paraguariensis) in hot water. This beverage has been enjoyed for centuries and is known for its unique earthy flavor and health benefits. The amount of mate needed per cup varies depending on personal preferences and … Read more

Does yerba mate get you buzzed?

This South American plant, which is a member of the holly family, also goes by the Spanish name "yerba" and the Portuguese name "erva." The tea has been consumed in regions of South America such as Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina for hundreds of years and plays an integral cultural role. Nutrients and Preparation The yerba … Read more

What is a gourd called?

The basic cup is made from a gourd. It can be simple or elaborately designed. Using a yerba mate gourd allows you to fully appreciate the flavor and unique benefits. It’s important to read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase. When people gather to drink mate tea from a gourd, there is even … Read more

What Does The South American Tea Pair Well With?

The mate leaves are native to South America. The leaves are used to make a tea called mate. It has an earthy flavor that varies slightly depending on how it was grown and brewed. The South American tea contains caffeine but does not make the drinker jittery. It has adaptogenic properties that regulate the body’s … Read more

How much caffeine is in coffee vs yerba mate?

On average, an 8-ounce serving of yerba mate contains approximately 30-50 milligrams of caffeine, while an equally sized serving of coffee contains around 95 milligrams. The caffeine in both coffee and yerba mate can provide a boost of energy and improve mental alertness. Besides caffeine, yerba mate contains theobromine, theophylline, and chlorogenic acid, which offer … Read more

Origins of Yerba Mate

The caffeinated drink originated with the indigenous Guarani people of Paraguay and Brazil. The Guarani used the plant leaves to make tea-like beverages. They believed it had medicinal properties and was a sacred plant gifted by the gods. The Guarani consumed the drink for centuries before Spanish colonization. The Jesuits later forbade then promoted it … Read more

Yerba Mate Tea: Health Benefits and Concerns

Cancer and PAHs risk Studies have found the temperature consumed at, not itself, causes cancer. Consuming fluids at temperatures 158-185°F seem to increase esophageal cancer risk. Considering South Americans drink 1-3 liters daily, it’s reasonable esophageal cancer is a health issue there. Always choose organic, unsmoked. Mateina’s is organic, air-dried. You can enjoy light-tasting with … Read more