Overview
Why is this herbal tea so expensive?
Yerba mate is a species of the holly genus native to only a few regions in South America. The seeds apparently only germinate after being digested by very specific native birds. This makes commercial cultivation more difficult and therefore the herb more precious.
History
This stimulating drink was first cultivated and used by the indigenous Guaraní people prior to European colonization. It is traditionally consumed in central and southern regions of South America, primarily in Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, and Chile.
Cultivation
It is possible to grow the plant outside South America in controlled environments where the climate is close to what it is familiar with. As long as reasonable control of the plants’ climate and conditions is maintained, cultivation is possible.
Health Benefits
This caffeinated beverage is one of the few plants that naturally produce caffeine. It is a great herbal alternative to coffee, whether making it hot or cold. Too much caffeine increases miscarriage and low birth weight risk for pregnant women who should speak to doctors before drinking it.
In the 16th century, Europeans in Paraguay picked up the drink from the indigenous Guaraní. But in this land of individualism and germophobia, the real thing will simply never catch on as it has been seen as a moneymaking commodity since Europeans arrived.
This South American tea has slightly less caffeine than coffee but offers health benefits. It contains anti-inflammatory saponins, chlorophyll, and antioxidants. Drinking it can help you lose weight, promote digestion, and keep your heart healthy. It provides an energy boost without the crash you may experience from coffee. It also boosts your immune system and enhances your overall wellbeing.
Some people find it provides more focus and prolonged energy compared to coffee. You can drink it later in the day without it disrupting your sleep. The components in yerba mate improve various areas of health, making it a great alternative to coffee.
Preparation
Yerba mate leaves are dried over a fire, and then infused in hot water to make the tea. This tea is typically consumed from a container called gourd and sipped with a metal straw that filters the leaf fragments floating on the surface. In South America, it is almost exclusively consumed with the traditional method.
It’s thought to enhance stamina, which is a priority from a historical nomadic, warrior society. The flavor can vary quite a bit, depending on how the leaves were processed and how you prepare the drink. It can be described as bitter, pungent, strong, nutty, grassy, herby, smokey. Some love it and some do not. Too bad it’s expensive as hell.
Consumption
So how much of this drink should you consume? Avoid constant consumption, 2 – 3 beverages at most, which should last a good portion of the day and through to the late afternoon. Avoid drinking during the evening, especially if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
The key is not overconsuming caffeine. This nutritious, social tradition beverage energizes body and connections. When shared in balance, it energizes body and connections.