Yerba Mate

Yerba Mate- Herba Mate Tea

Origin: Argentina

Infusion Temperature: 60°-70° Celsius

Infusion Time: 10-15 minutes

Serving Size: 2-3 grams/200 ml

Experience the authentic taste and rich tradition of Yerba Mate, the renowned South American herbal infusion celebrated especially in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. Also known as “Mate,” this distinctive beverage has been cherished for centuries for its invigorating properties, cultural significance, and unique flavor profile. Now, with our premium grade Yerba Mate, you can enjoy the genuine South American experience from the comfort of your home.

Yerba Mate, scientifically known as Ilex Paraguariensis, is an evergreen tree native to South America, predominantly found in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and parts of Bolivia. It can grow up to 20 meters tall, producing sturdy, leathery leaves that are harvested, dried, and crushed to create the infusion known worldwide as mate tea. Revered by the indigenous Guaraní people, who first discovered its energizing benefits, this herbal tea has become a symbol of hospitality, tradition, and social bonding throughout the continent.

In Argentina and Paraguay, Yerba Mate is much more than a drink; it is a vital part of social life and cultural identity. Traditionally consumed from a hollowed gourd called a matero or simply a “mate,” and sipped through a metal straw with a built-in filter known as a bombilla, mate drinking is an act of sharing and connection. This ritual is so ingrained in South American life that even notable figures such as Pope Francis and Argentina’s national soccer team, including Lionel Messi, are often seen enjoying mate during travels and breaks.

Yerba Mate offers a robust and distinctive flavor that is slightly bitter, earthy, and smoky, with subtle notes reminiscent of tobacco and wood. This complex taste makes it a refreshing alternative to coffee or traditional teas, with the added benefit of a gentle caffeine boost.

Brewing Recommendations on How to Prepare Traditional Argentine Yerba Mate:

• 2-3 grams of Yerba Mate leaves
• A matero (gourd) or ceramic/metal cup
• A bombilla (metal straw with a filter)
• Hot water (60°-70°C)
• Fill the matero halfway with Yerba Mate leaves.
• Insert the bombilla and avoid moving it once placed.
• Pour hot water slowly (never boiling) into the gourd.
• Tilt the matero so the water saturates only part of the leaves.
• Sip the infusion through the bombilla, replenishing the hot water as it runs out.

This method ensures a long-lasting infusion that maintains flavor and caffeine content throughout your mate session, traditionally called the mateada. For on-the-go enjoyment, many South Americans carry a thermos with hot water.

Alternative preparation: If you don’t have a bombilla or matero, prepare mate as a tisane by steeping 1 tablespoon of yerba mate leaves in hot water for 10–15 minutes a method known as mate cocido. This is convenient and still offers the benefits of this historic infusion.

Tereré: In warmer climates and countries like Paraguay and Brazil, mate is also enjoyed cold as Tereré — yerba mate infused with cold water or ice, often flavored with lemon or herbs for a revitalizing drink that refreshes and hydrates.

Nutritional and Health Benefits of Yerba Mate is prized for its multitude of health benefits, including: Contains about half the caffeine of coffee, offering sustained alertness without jitters. Helps soothe digestive discomfort and promotes healthy metabolism. Supports detoxification and fluid balance. Rich in polyphenols, vitamin C, and other nutrients that help combat oxidative stress and promote general wellness. Known to stimulate fat burning, aiding weight management and appetite control. Enhances concentration and alleviates fatigue, popular among athletes and students.

Our Yerba Mate, sourced directly from top producers in Brazil and Argentina, is 100% organic, carefully selected to guarantee authenticity, purity, and exceptional taste.

Before first use, your matero should be “cured” to enhance flavor and remove any bitterness:

• Fill it two-thirds full with yerba mate.
• Add boiling water and let it infuse overnight.
• Rinse thoroughly and repeat for 1-2 days until the gourd absorbs the mate’s aroma.
• This preparation ensures your mate sessions are smooth and enjoyable.

While Yerba Mate is generally safe and free of major side effects, moderate consumption (2-4 grams per day) is advised due to caffeine content. Some epidemiological studies have suggested that excessive long-term consumption of very hot mate may increase certain cancer risks, so it’s recommended to drink it warm, not boiling, and in reasonable amounts.

Discover why Yerba Mate is the beverage of choice for millions across South America and beyond. Whether you seek a healthy caffeine alternative, a cultural experience, or a delicious herbal infusion, our premium Yerba Mate delivers. Explore our selection and bring home the authentic taste and wellness benefits of this iconic South American treasure.