Maté

What is mate?

Mate, also known as “Paraguayan tea,” is a traditional South American infusion made from the dried leaves of Ilex paraguariensis, a tree in the holly family, whose leaves are commonly called “yerba mate.” This tree, which can grow up to 15 meters tall, thrives in the hot, humid climate of the forests of Paraguay, southern Brazil, and Argentina. The leaves of this tree are harvested, dried, and then ground to produce yerba mate. The resulting infusion is prized for its natural caffeine content, antioxidants, and various essential nutrients. A true cultural symbol, much like Lapacho, it has been consumed for centuries in South America, and its popularity has spread to other parts of the world in recent years.

The Benefits of Mate

This beverage, highly prized by athletes, offers numerous health benefits. Due to its natural caffeine content, it has a stimulating effect and improves alertness.* Combined with the plant’s other natural compounds, particularly theobromine, this stimulation is much gentler and more sustained than that of coffee.

Mate is therefore an attractive alternative to coffee for times that require alertness and concentration, particularly during long workouts or work sessions.

Mate is also valued for its ability to stimulate kidney function and prevent water retention in the body. Its diuretic properties make it an excellent ally for flushing out toxins and maintaining a healthy weight.*

Drinking Mate the Traditional Way

The traditional way to enjoy mate typically involves two accessories: a gourd and a bombilla. The mate leaves are placed in the gourd, and then hot water is added. The bombilla is a strainer straw that allows you to drinkthe exotic infusion while keeping the leaves out. This preparation method adds a cultural and social dimension to the enjoyment of this South American beverage, which is often shared during gatherings with friends or family.

Although drinking it from a gourd with a bombilla adds a convivial and authentic touch, mate can also simply be prepared in a teapot.

* Recommended daily intake: 3 cups of 25 cl.

It is recommended to adopt a healthy lifestyle and a varied, balanced diet to fully enjoy the benefits of this herbal tea. Average nutritional information per 100 ml: Energy 3 kJ/1 kcal. This herbal tea contains negligible amounts of fat (including saturated fatty acids), carbohydrates (including sugars), protein, and salt.