Production This South American beverage is made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, a type of holly native to South America. The leaves are harvested year-round and dried to make the infusion, which is brewed similar to tea. The traditional method of preparing the drink uses a gourd and metal straw … Read more
Where is the plant originally from? The yerba mate plant thrives in humid, warm climates typical of this region. It is most popular in Paraguay and Uruguay, where people carry the mate and termo. In Argentina 5 kg is consumed annually per capita. The flavor resembles an infusion of vegetables, herbs and grass, like some … Read more
Health Benefits Is yerba mate actually good for you? This caffeine-containing South American drink made from the dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant has health benefits similar to coffee, tea, and chocolate. Indigenous South Americans called it "the drink of the gods." It contains polyphenols and saponins which may boost immunity, improve heart health, … Read more
To cure a mate gourd, put moist yerba inside and add warm water. Let sit 24 hours. Remove yerba, rinse, and scrape inside skin off. Always handwash gourds with warm water. Rinse after use, dry at an angle for air circulation to prevent mold. Modern curing clears insides out in 20 minutes. Using a Mate … Read more
Is this South American tea A Black or green tea? This South American drink contains a moderate amount of caffeine, falling between coffee and tea. The brewing time affects caffeine content. It is rich in vitamins A, B, C, E which boost the immune system. It also has high levels of minerals like calcium and … Read more
What does it taste like drink? The plant has an earthy, woodsy, or grassy taste. Some describe this as the taste of green or pu-erh tea. Some enjoy this grassy taste, while others prefer adding lemon, honey, or milk to tone it down. The taste ultimately depends on the brand and how it is prepared. … Read more
Guayaki Yerba Mate contains 30-50 mg of caffeine per 12 oz serving. This is similar to black tea and less than coffee. The canned drinks contain about 160 mg per 16 oz, comparable to mainstream energy drinks. The herbal tea has other beneficial compounds like antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acids. It may provide mental alertness, … Read more
Caffeine Content The caffeine content in yerba mate ranges from 30-50 milligrams per cup. An 8-ounce cup of coffee typically contains around 95 milligrams. The caffeine dose is more subdued compared to coffee. Grown in South America, the herbal infusion is famed for its energy-boosting properties. With roughly 70 mg of caffeine per serving, it … Read more
The South American tea is produced from holly leaves. The plant grows in rainforests. Wild leaves taste better but grow slower. In controlled settings, leaves grow quickly so harvest happens each winter. The infusion has caffeine, theobromine, and antioxidants. These stimulate mind and body without crashing. It has less caffeine than coffee but more nutrition. … Read more
Traditional Preparation Higher in Caffeine A cup of this tea brewed with the traditional method has much higher caffeine content compared to tea bags. According to a 2009 study, it brewed with 50 grams of loose leaves and 500 ml of water contains about 380mg of caffeine, equaling 4 cups of coffee. Besides caffeine difference, … Read more
