The tea is made from the dried leaves of a small tree, Ilex paraguariensis, that grows in the Interior Atlantic Forest, or Matto Grosso. This forest has a climate similar to Florida. Indigenous peoples in these areas have been drinking the energizing beverage with medicinal properties for centuries.
The infusion comes from Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Its natural range includes an oval-shaped area that overlaps the northern tip of Argentina, southwestern Brazil, and southeastern Paraguay. At the heart of this region where the three countries meet is the famous Iguazú Falls. The gourd herb is prepared by filling a container up to three-quarters full with dry leaves and twigs of I. paraguariensis, and filling it with hot water. Originally translated as the ‘gourd herb’; i.e., the herb one drinks from a gourd.
You can find the beverage in health food stores, specialty tea shops, mainstream grocery stores, and online retailers like Amazon and Walmart. It also comes in all different colors, tastes, strengths, cuts, and effects based on how it’s harvested, processed, and aged.
When compared to most other drinks, the tea has a much higher level of polyphenols. Polyphenols are not the only antioxidants in the tea but it seems their concentration has a strong correlation with the antioxidant capacity of a beverage.
The leaves of the yerba mate plant contain carcinogens also found in tobacco and grilled meat. In small amounts, this is not dangerous. Do not be concerned about drinking the gourd herb in moderation. The infusion is enjoyed communally. Meeting up in nature and passing a container with one bombilla creates a bond.
Research suggests the tea may have beneficial effects on cholesterol, weight loss, heart health, inflammation, and cancer risk, but more studies are needed. The tea is an herbal tea made by steeping dried yerba mate plant leaves in hot water. Like black or green tea, it contains caffeine. Drinking the gourd herb is linked to few health problems in most adults. Daily consumption of the tea seems to be safe for up to 12 weeks.
The tea tastes bitter thanks to tannins. It can provide an energy boost from its caffeine. This leads to increased alertness, better concentration, less fatigue, and improved performance. It might also help brain function by stimulating dopamine, the "feel good" chemical giving a rush from enjoyable activities. Possible side effects include jitteriness from the caffeine and theobromine.
Millions are devoted to this South American beverage from tree leaves. The mild buzz isn’t as intense as strong coffee. Its popularity comes from its unique taste, potential health benefits, and cultural importance. Its caffeine can lead to mild dependence with regular drinking. In Argentina, sharing the South American drink is a symbol of friendship. Similarly, in Brazil drinking it during soccer or at the beach is a tradition. Its flavor profile and cultural significance depend heavily on where it’s produced.