Yerba Mate (mah-tay) is a plant grown in the southern rainforests of South America that is grown, dried, and milled by farmers to eventually be consumed as a beverage. It is naturally caffeinated and contains many health benefits, even more than green tea. These health benefits include vitamins (A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B5), minerals (Calcium, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium, etc.), and other compounds that promote good health and improved mood. Not only is mate a healthier energy source, but the energy felt after drinking mate has been known to be much less jittery than after consuming coffee.
Yerba mate is consumed widely by natives of several South American countries and has become growlingly popular in Europe and in the United States. The traditional way to consume mate is with a gourd and bombilla, preferably shared with others around you. This cultural tradition of sharing yerba mate dates back centuries in Argentinian, Paraguayan, and Uruguayan history. The traditional act of sharing a gourd of mate is almost ceremonial to these cultures and it brings a sense of community to a simple daily action.
How do you start drinking yerba mate?
Yerba mate can be consumed in several different ways.
- Gourd and Bombilla– Loose leaf mate are properly packed into a gourd, hot water is poured over and then consumed through the bombilla. Many people flavor the water poured into the gourd with fruit or spice to create a better taste if desired.
- Tereré– This is mate prepared with cold water and ice rather than hot. Often you will find that tereré is flavored as well.
- Tea bags– some grocery stores in the US carry tea bags of yerba mate that you can prepare just like any other hot tea from the store.
- Hot press/tea maker– loose leaf can be steeped in hot water along with other natural flavors if wanted.
- Canned/bottled yerba mate– Brands such as Guayakí produce cans and bottles of yerba mate that are sweetened, flavored, and delicious.
Local Carriers of yerba mate: Whole Foods, UNCW Fisher POD Market, & Harris Teeter on Oleander Drive.