What is mate?

Mate is an infusion made from the dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, native to South America. Consumed primarily in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and southern Brazil, mate is known for its natural properties, which increase energy and concentration. It is drunk in a traditional container called a mate cup with a bombilla, making it a unique cultural experience.

As more benefits of drinking this infusion continue to be discovered and confirmed, yerba mate is gaining international recognition as a natural super drink.

Mate is an infusion prepared from the leaves of Ilex paraguariensis, a tree native to the subtropical regions of South America. It has been consumed for centuries and has established itself throughout history as the favorite beverage of millions of people in Argentina (the world's leading producer and exporter), as well as in Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil.

In fact, yerba mate was recognized as one of the world's "most surprising and enjoyable discoveries" by the prestigious CNN Travel magazine. In this top 50 list, mate ranks above one of the world's most famous beers, the best-selling energy drink, the popular piña colada, and whiskey.

But for many people, especially outside of South America, this may be the first time they've heard the term "yerba mate." It's time to discover a natural drink that's unlike any other!

Where does mate come from?

Mate tea is prepared from the yerba mate plant, a tree native to South America that only grows significantly in three countries: Argentina (the world's leading producer), Brazil, and Paraguay. This tree, called Ilex Paraguariensis, is part of a large family of species with more than 600 varieties. The yerba mate plant can have a productive life of up to 100 years. Learn more about the yerba mate plant here.

After being dried, ground, and packaged in a carefully controlled process, yerba mate leaves are readily available in countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Brazil, and parts of Chile (today, yerba mate can also be purchased in other regions of the world). Yerba mate is the most popular beverage in Argentina, surpassing coffee and tea.

A little bit of history

Although the discovery of yerba mate can be attributed to the Kaingang ethnic group around 3,000 BC, history recognizes the Guaraní people of the Paraná rainforest as the pioneers of mate and the creators of their unique way of drinking it. They used the herb for nutritional and therapeutic purposes, but also as a symbolic and spiritual element. The word "mate" comes from the Guaraní word "Caa-mate," where "Caa" means plant or herb, and "mate" refers to the gourd they used to drink it.

With the arrival of the Spanish, mate consumption spread throughout the colony. During this period, Jesuit missionaries were the pioneers in cultivating and expanding the consumption of mate. Later, the "gauchos" (a type of Argentine cowboy) settled throughout Argentina and adopted yerba mate as part of their identity. They would sit around the fire and, next to their barbecue, heat water and pass the mate from hand to hand. During Argentina's independence in the 19th century, the tradition of drinking mate became entrenched in the country's national culture.

How is yerba mate prepared and drunk?

This infusion is prepared in a very particular way. Traditionally, a special gourd designed for this purpose, also called a "mate," is required. This mate comes in various shapes and materials, such as glass, metal, and wood, among others. A thin straw called a "bombilla" is also needed to sip the mate, and ideally, a glass or stainless steel thermos to maintain the water temperature.

The quality of the yerba mate is also a determining factor when enjoying yerba mate. Only high-quality yerba mate will guarantee the flavor, aromas, and ideal experience.

Although there are several ways to prepare and drink yerba mate, the most common is hot yerba mate. To prepare a traditional mate tea, the ground leaves are infused with hot water inside the mate. This is how Argentines prefer their yerba mate.

Traditionally, yerba mate is shared by two or more people, even using the same mate and bombilla; however, only one person can be in charge of preparation. This person is called a "cebador" or "cebadora" and will serve mate to each member of the group, always receiving, preparing, and passing the mate to the next person. This special ceremony dates back to the Argentine gauchos who shared yerba mate around a fire.

Are there other ways to drink yerba mate?

Yerba mate is very versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

• For example, during the summer, cold yerba mate, or tereré, is very popular in Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay. This refreshing infusion is prepared with yerba mate (usually in fruity versions), cold water, and ice cubes.

• Originally, yerba mate has a herbal, slightly bitter flavor. Some people prefer to add sugar, sweeteners, honey, or stevia.

• Yerba mate comes in flavored versions with fruits like orange or other citrus fruits. Some people prefer to add fruit peels or natural herbs like mint, lemon balm, or lemon verbena to enhance the flavor and benefits.

• Yerba mate can also be found in tea bag form, allowing you to add milk and sugar just like you would with coffee or tea.

  
  

• Mate con palo is the most classic and most popular version among Argentinians; however, mate without a stem is also available. There is also "low-powder" yerba mate, which results in a clearer infusion.

What are the benefits of yerba mate?

One of the main reasons people love yerba mate is its stimulating and energizing effect, the same reason people enjoy drinking coffee or tea in the morning (although yerba mate has undeniable advantages over these beverages). The caffeine in yerba mate stimulates the nervous system and increases concentration and energy levels; ideal for undertaking any activity in your daily routine.

However, the caffeine in yerba mate is gentler than, for example, energy drinks. These commercial beverages sometimes contain so much caffeine and sugar that they cause insomnia, nervousness, rapid heart rate, and nausea.

Beyond that, yerba mate is considered one of the best and healthiest beverages in the world. Its antioxidant power protects cells and improves all bodily functions. It contains almost all the micronutrients the human body needs, such as vitamins, essential minerals, and others.

Yerba mate is also known for its medicinal properties, helping to boost the immune system and contributing to the prevention of diseases such as diabetes, arteriosclerosis, Parkinson's disease, colon cancer, Alzheimer's, and cardiovascular problems. Yerba mate also works to protect bones and reduce bad cholesterol.

Digestion can also be significantly improved by drinking yerba mate. This natural infusion stimulates bowel movements and can relieve constipation by aiding the body in its natural process of eliminating waste and toxins. And if that weren't enough, mate improves cognitive function, is an effective neuroprotector, and has detoxifying, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Are you trying to lose weight? Yerba mate is fat-free and low in calories and sodium. So, it can easily be included in any healthy diet or routine. It also boosts metabolism and gives you energy for sports.

In general, yerba mate promotes a state of well-being that improves quality of life. You can read in detail about the countless health benefits of yerba mate here.

Is it safe to drink yerba mate every day?

Yes, yerba mate can be the perfect addition to a healthy morning routine. It has many benefits and is unlikely to cause side effects in the average adult or put their health at risk. You can start slowly by sipping a few sips until you find the amount and frequency that works for you. Numerous scientific studies confirm that yerba mate is one of the healthiest and most nutritious beverages available today, and some consider it a superfood. It provides vitamins (especially B vitamins), potassium, magnesium, iron, caffeine, polyphenols, and saponins.

Mate is also culture

In addition to its energizing effect and health benefits, drinking mate is a social custom and part of the lifestyle in producing countries. In Argentina, for example, the mate ritual is an essential part of the daily routine of its citizens (present in 90% of Argentine homes). In this country, mate is generally enjoyed in groups, sharing the same mate, regardless of the number of drinkers. There is a person in charge of filling the mate with water, or "cebar," and passing it around. However, during the pandemic and social distancing measures, it is recommended that everyone use their own mate and bombilla, although hot water is still shared!

Also in Uruguay, mate is considered the national drink. Uruguayans drink hot, bitter mate, mostly individually, anytime, anywhere. Mate cups are much larger, and the yerba mate without a stem is preferred, and a personal mate kit is often used.

In Paraguay, yerba mate is more yellow in color and is primarily consumed as "tereré," a Guaraní-origin beverage made with yerba mate, cold water, and other refreshing herbs. In southern Brazil, they have their own type of yerba mate (greener and always bitter) called chimarrão. There, it's also considered a source of social cohesion, as it is in Argentina, although many also drink it neat throughout the day.

Thus, what began as an indigenous tradition remains current and unchanged. Today, mate is the drink of choice for millions of people; and that number continues to grow thanks to numerous scientific studies that support its many virtues. Yerba mate has transcended South American borders, gaining followers all over the world. Now you can enjoy this unique beverage anywhere.

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