What plant is yerba mate made from?
The yerba mate plant is native to South America. The leaves are used to make a tea-like drink with a similar effect as coffee. It likes humidity. Seeds are planted in spring. It takes years for the plants to be ready to harvest. The leaves are dried by fire before steeped in hot water.
The ritual of preparing mate requires special equipment. An intricately decorated gourd is filled halfway with leaves. After shaking, cold water is added to bring out the flavor. The straw is inserted. Then more hot water is added.
The mate flavor is earthy and herbal with hints of fruit. It offers health benefits from nutrients like caffeine. But too much can cause side effects in some. Overall it is safe for most people in moderation.
Can you grow yerba mate in the US?
- Mate is a plant native to parts of South America.
- It is a member of the holly family and contains caffeine.
- The infusion made from mate’s leaves and twigs is popular in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil.
- Mate can be cultivated outdoors in tropical environments with high humidity. It grows slowly from seeds and cuttings. The plant prefers loose, humid soil. It can also be grown as a houseplant in pots.
- Some gardeners in the US are interested in this plant. The tea has a bitter, vegetal taste. It provides a caffeine boost similar to coffee or tea. The plant may offer health benefits, but more research is still needed.
What is Yerba Mate?
What exactly is yerba mate?
- Mate is an herb native to South America.
- The leaves and twigs are dried, then steeped to make an infusion. Brewed cold, it makes tereré.
- Mate is considered more nutrient-rich when grown in shade.
- It is popular is countries like Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Brazil where it is consumed in place of coffee.
- Originally discovered by indigenous peoples, it was used for stamina, medicinal purposes and in agriculture-based lifestyles.
- The plant thrives in subtropical climates and takes around 2-4 years reach maturity for harvest.
- Mate continues its popularity in South America where it is prepared in hollowed gourds called calabashes and sipped through metal straws with filters.
- It can be enjoyed hot or iced.
- While safe for most in moderation, one should consult a doctor.
- Its flavors best enjoyed by indulging in delightful drink recipes.
Is yerba mate from the tea plant?
- Yerba mate’s origins filled with folklore. Discovered by indigenous peoples of Paraguay and Brazil, it was an herb “from the gods”. It was a dietary staple for agriculture-dependent, nomadic and warrior lifestyles. It was also used for medicinal purposes.
- This infusion can be steeped for a beverage. Brewed cold, it makes tereré. Friends gather and drink mate in Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. The chemical components similar to green tea; more nutritious. The beneficial aspects verified by scientific studies. People worldwide refer to it as a “whole body tonic”.
- Mate is derived from the Ilex paraguariensis tree. It provides an energy boost similar to coffee.
- The plant grows in subtropical regions of South America. Argentina world’s leading producer.
How to Make Mate Tea
How to make Mate Tea? Enjoy hot or cold, without milk. Brew 1 teaspoon at 100° for 4 minutes. Start with award-winning Morning Kick blend. What’s your favourite Mate blend?