Where is Yerba Mate from?
This tea is a tea-like infusion made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant native to South America. This Holly tree grows in the Atlantic rainforests of northeastern Argentina, Paraguay, southern Brazil and Uruguay. The local farmers harvest the leaves to produce it.
The plant thrives in the mineral-rich local soil, giving the tea a wide range of vitamins and minerals. It boosts metabolism and suppresses appetite. The caffeine provides an invigorating lift without the jittery effects of coffee.
Yerba Mate Culture and Ritual
It is more than a drink in South America; it represents a beloved daily ritual that brings people together. Sharing enhances a sense of belonging whether at work, home or with new friends. The cebador prepares and tastes the first of a session before refilling the gourd and passing it around.
Yerba Mate Benefits
This Argentine tea option offers a wonderful herbal alternative to coffee.
Yerba Mate in the US
It is an evergreen tree native to the subtropical region of South America, mainly Argentina, Southern Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. Indigenous Guaraní first cultivated it before European colonization. Although similar to coffee and green tea, it is unique. The best tasting comes from rainforest shade-grown leaves.
It is legal in the US and provides an alternative to coffee/tea for energy, blood lipids and weight loss. Brands use different harvest, process and age methods impacting flavor and consistency. We recommend beginners first try Argentine brands.
It can be found in tea or international aisles of supermarkets and ethnic markets. Aside from loose dried leaves, ready-made tea bags and drinks are available. While an herb "from the gods" for indigenous peoples, it is still integral to South American culture and increasingly popular worldwide.
Yerba Mate’s Global Popularity
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The indigenous Guaraní and some Tupi communities first cultivated and consumed it. After the Jesuits discovered its commercialization potential, it became widespread.
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In South America, it is more than just a drink. It is a tradition which brings people together. Good things like music, food and dance tend to connect people. I come from Poland and want to describe how it spread here. Although culture isn’t pronounced in Poland, it’s more evolved than in other European countries.
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In Argentina drinking is ingrained in culture. Argentines usually drink it for breakfast or before sunset, hot or cold. As things evolve it has become common to drink from cans and bottles. But sharing forges emotional links between people.
Yerba Mate Origins and History
- The origins are filled with folklore. Discovered by indigenous peoples of Paraguay and Brazil, it was known as an herb “from the gods” used for stamina. It was also used for medicinal purposes.
Yerba Mate Harvest and Processing
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Indigenous people like the Guaraní used it. It was medicine and a social drink. As Europeans arrived, it grew popular among them too. Now it is part of South American culture. Sharing promotes friendship.
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It is usually sipped continuously for hours. More leaves or water are added as needed. Drinking brings out more flavor and nutrients. It is often drunk socially. People meet up in nature. They pass one gourd and bombilla. This bonds them.
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It comes in different colors, tastes, strengths. This depends on harvest and processing. It comes from Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay. Each country has a distinct version.
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Syria and Lebanon import the most worldwide. Emigrants returning from South America brought the tradition there.