The yerba mate herb is native to South America. The seeds apparently only germinate after being digested by native birds. This makes commercial cultivation more difficult and therefore the herb more precious.
Defining a good mate is more about personal tastes than product quality. Traditional mate varies depending on the region where it is grown and enjoyed.
Our Top Picks
We’ve tested dozens of brands, exploring forms, processing methods, flavor intensities, and price points. Here are some good mates:
- Best Overall: U.S. Wellness Naturals Mate Tea
- Runner-up: Rosamonte Special Selection Mate Tea
Rosamonte Special Selection was the first blend that I tried. Due to its smooth, relatively mild taste, which has pleasant complexity, it’s still one of my favorites. I recommend this mate to everyone, especially beginners!
The mate herb can be found as loose leaf tea or in tea bags. Mate is often shared communally in a hollow gourd known as a matete or guampa using a special straw called a bombilla.
Health Effects
In terms of health effects, the mate herb contains polyphenols and antioxidants but can also have high caffeine levels so moderation is advised, especially for those who are sensitive to stimulants or who are pregnant.
Rosamonte Special Selection mate was the first traditional blend that I tried, and I must say that it is a very nice one. Even today it’s still one of my favorites due to its smooth and relatively mild taste, which still has pleasant complexity.