- Joel Muñoz
- Apr 10
- 3 min read
Yerba mate, the ideal companion during quarantine
During quarantine, yerba mate became the ideal companion for many people. In addition to its health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and providing natural energy, mate symbolizes social connection in times of social distancing. Sharing a virtual round of mate was a way to stay close despite the distance.
Quarantine, as a COVID-19 prevention measure, drastically changed lifestyles worldwide. Our daily routines were moved to the limited area of our own homes, both for entertainment and learning. This also applies to working from home, as some continue to work from home. In the midst of these extraordinary circumstances, mate (sipated individually) is a perfect ally.
The power of the jungle
Yerba mate provides the energy needed for everyday life, and its caffeine content acts on the mind and body more gradually than other stimulant beverages such as coffee or tea, for example. In the latter, the energizing effect is short-lived and can be excessive, even causing nervousness and tachycardia. Furthermore, thanks to the special way mate is prepared and consumed in sips or "cebadas," the energy is measured and long-lasting. This is ideal for livening up an entire morning or afternoon at home during quarantine.
As Taragüi's claim suggests, mate has an energizing power. It is a 100% natural beverage that contains no sugar or chemicals and comes directly from the yerba mate plant. Mate is much healthier than commercial energy drinks, as its energizing effect comes from nature itself and not from an artificial process.
Benefits of drinking mate during quarantine
Yerba mate itself is packed with nutritional benefits, necessary to maintain good health during quarantine and be fully prepared to face the outside world when it's possible to go out. What are the benefits of drinking mate?
It provides large amounts of antioxidants, essential vitamins, minerals and more than ten types of amino acids.
It is the ideal companion for quarantine since it can be taken all day.
It is a natural antidepressant and has a positive effect on emotional health.
Improves the body's natural defenses.
Promotes cardiovascular health.
It stimulates the central nervous system during any physical or intellectual activity.
It helps the body eliminate toxins and purify itself naturally.
It is a good digestive.
“Whoever drinks mate is never alone”
In Argentina, 50% of mate drinkers have at least one sip during the day. In these times of isolation and social distancing, mate can become that perfect friend, instilling a positive mood and keeping us company throughout the day, especially if we have to study, work, or perform tasks that require dedication and attention (drinking mate improves concentration).
How to prepare the perfect mate?
To prepare a perfect mate and obtain a foamy, full-bodied and tasty infusion, you need an appropriate mate kit that has: a good mate (a hollow container with a small base and a wide mouth), a special bombilla or mate straw, and high-quality yerba mate (make sure of its origin and provenance; as is the case with Yerba Mate Taragüi, which is packaged at its source) to ensure the perfect flavor, texture and aroma.
Fill the mate ¾ full with yerba mate, cover with your hand, and shake the mate to mix the components evenly.
Make sure the yerba is tilted to one side of the mate, and pour a small amount of warm water into the lower part.
Insert the bombilla on that same side, and leave it fixed there, pressing against the inner wall of the mate.
Finally, it is primed with water at a temperature of about 75°C little by little, on the side where the bulb is.
Drinking mate in times of quarantine
Drinking mate is a deeply rooted ancestral custom, especially in cultures like Uruguay and Argentina, along with soccer and barbecues. Although traditionally in South America, mate is drunk in groups, sharing the same mate and bombilla, these days it's necessary to reinvent the way we drink mate. You can still drink mate with your family or housemates, but each person can use their own mate, without sharing a container or bombilla. You can even share hot water! And for those who miss the mate gatherings, you can even chat online and socialize from a distance. The most important thing is to stay healthy!