Mate (pronounced mah-teh) is a traditional South American beverage that is made by steeping the dried leaves of the yerba mate plant in hot water. It is often referred to as a tisane or herbal tea, although it does contain caffeine and other stimulants that are not typically found in most herbal teas.
The yerba mate plant is native to South America and is a member of the holly family. The leaves of the plant are harvested, dried, and then typically ground up into a fine powder or left in whole leaf form. The dried leaves are then steeped in hot water using a special gourd or cup that is called a “mate” in Spanish.
The yerba mate plant is native to South America and is a member of the holly family. The leaves of the plant are harvested, dried, and then typically ground up into a fine powder or left in whole leaf form. The dried leaves are then steeped in hot water using a special gourd or cup that is called a “mate” in Spanish.
Mate is a popular beverage in many parts of South America, including Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil. It is often enjoyed in social settings, where a group of people will share a gourd of mate and pass it around, each person taking a turn to sip from the same straw or bombilla.
In addition to its stimulating properties, mate is also known for its many health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and has been shown to boost energy, aid digestion, and even improve mental clarity and focus. Some studies have also suggested that mate may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
"90% of the population"
Mate is primarily consumed in South America, particularly in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil. It is estimated that over 90% of the population in some of these countries regularly consume mate.
The amount of mate consumed can vary depending on the individual and the social setting. In some cases, a single gourd of mate may be shared among a group of people, with each person taking several sips before passing it on to the next person. In other cases, individuals may consume several gourds of mate in a day, either on their own or with others.
Myth & Legend
Mate is sometimes referred to as the “Drink of the Gods” due to its long history and cultural significance in South America. The indigenous peoples of the region have been consuming mate for centuries and consider it to be a sacred beverage.
According to legend, the Guarani people of Paraguay were given the mate plant by the gods themselves as a gift to promote health, vitality, and connection to the spiritual realm. The Guarani believed that mate had powerful medicinal properties and that it could heal the body, calm the mind, and bring people together in a communal spirit.
As the use of mate spread throughout South America, it became an important part of many different cultures and tradition, and is often shared among friends and family members as a way of strengthening social bonds and fostering a sense of community. It is also seen as a symbol of hospitality and goodwill, with guests often being offered mate as a sign of respect and friendship.
My favourite Mate
I’ve been enjoying this one for a long time. There is next to no dust and the flavour lasts very long! It can be a little on the pricey side but well worth the taste.
ORIGEENS ORGANIC YERBA MATE 1Kg
