Overview
It is native to South America. The leaves are used to make mate, an herbal drink. Mate is popular in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Its flavor varies based on how it’s grown and prepared. It has the same caffeine as coffee but doesn’t make drinkers jittery. It has adaptogenic properties to regulate the body. Preparing mate involves a simple ceremony.
Best Brands
We tested dozens of brands on flavor, processing, intensity and price. Here are the best ones:
- Best Overall – U.S. Wellness Naturals
- Runner-up – Rosamonte Special Selection
- Best Tea Bags – ECOTEAS Unsmoked
- Strongest – Canarias
It is a South American plant species, named by French botanist Augustin Saint-Hilaire.
Social Aspect
Friends gather and drink mate in Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay like people meet for coffee. The origins are filled with folklore. For centuries its caffeine-rich leaves have produced an energizing drink. The drink is popular in Latin America for its natural caffeine content. Its alkaloids also contribute an energizing effect. We’ve prepared a list of the best flavors to try.
Flavored Blends
Flavored blends mix herbs like mint and sage with it for a light, refreshing drink. To avoid sugar or flavorings, use liquid extracts or powders. Know your limits.
Key Features
It is a traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It contains caffeine, theobromine and theophylline with less caffeine than coffee but more than tea.
It provides a smooth energy boost, similar to coffee. But it has more nutrients and less caffeine than coffee. It’s been called "the drink of the gods" by indigenous South Americans and "the green gold of the Indios" by European settlers.
Native Region
The plant is native to parts of South America including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. The leaves are dried, soaked in hot water and filtered through a metal straw to make the infusion consumed for centuries by local communities.
Growing Popularity
In recent decades, it has become popular worldwide thanks to its flavor and benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants, may aid weight loss by increasing metabolism and contains compounds linked to improved brain function.
Cultural Significance
The drinking ritual creates community and friendship. This tradition has been passed down for generations.
Balanced Effects
It provides a balanced energy boost without jitters or crashes associated with coffee. It’s balanced since the caffeine is released slowly.
Sustainably Grown
Sustainably harvested it retains fresh, green taste. The blends contain only natural ingredients with no additives.