Why is yerba mate special?

The super-food benefits This South American drink is rich in important chemical compounds and nutrients, unique super-food benefits like promoting digestion, heart health, and enhanced exercise performance. It gives an incredibly long-lasting energy boost without the coffee crash. The taste is warmly strong, slightly bitter and has been described as chocolatey and nutty. South American … Read more

How much maté do you put in a gourd?

The ideal ratio is typically about 1:2 or 1:3. This ratio ensures perfect balance between flavor and strength, resulting in an enjoyable drinking experience. Using too much can result in a bitter taste. Using too little can result in a weak infusion. Say “Gracias” when you no longer want to drink mate. It’s a sign … Read more

Is My Yerba Mate Expired?

This herbal tea is possibly unsafe when taken in large amounts or for long periods of time. Specifically, the effects of temperature are crucial in preserving its flavor and aroma. To maintain its freshness, make sure you store the herbal drink in a cool and dry place. The storage conditions can have a significant impact … Read more

The Basics of Drinking Yerba Mate

Yerba mate is a tea made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis tree native to South America. It has been consumed for centuries by indigenous peoples. The flavor is earthy, grassy, or woodsy with hints of fruit. Nutrition and Health Effects It contains caffeine and antioxidants similar to green tea. Yerba mate offers various … Read more

Availability in Canada

Can you get this South American tea in Canada? Easily find it in over 1000 stores across Canada. It is mainly a specialty drink, so order it online or ask for it in stores. I can’t speak for Montreal, but you can buy Guayakí brands in Vancouver grocery stores. Discover Mate Libre across Canada. Fill … Read more

Preparing Mate at Home

What is Mate? Mate is a tea made from the leaves of a South American holly plant. It has a robust, slightly bitter flavor. The traditional way to drink it is out of a hollowed-out gourd called a mate. The mate is filled with dried leaves, then hot water is poured over them. The tea … Read more

Does this herbal drink expire?

Storage time If you keep it in an air-tight container like a glass jar with a lid away from light, what is the shelf life? Is it like tea or coffee where it will become stale? Or is it like certain types of tea like pu-erh where it ages and takes on different flavours? Preparation … Read more

Is it safe to drink maté everyday?

Drinking large amounts of maté (1-2 liters daily) for a long time increases the risk of some types of cancer, especially for people who smoke or drink alcohol. Consuming over 10 cups daily increases the risk of caffeine-related side effects. Maté contains caffeine which can cause insomnia, upset stomach, increased heart rate. It is possibly … Read more

What is the traditional yerba mate ceremony?

The beverage is traditionally consumed from a hollowed-out gourd through a special straw called a "bombilla." The bombilla filters out the tea leaves. The final tool is a thermos, used to transport hot water. Its main purpose is to help people bond. The drinking ritual represents hospitality and welcoming. People drink this tea for its … Read more