Yerba Mate - Why You Should Drink It Every Day.
As an Australian living in Argentina, I’ve fully embraced the South American tradition of drinking yerba mate daily. With its health benefits, you should too, no matter where you are in the world.
Introduction:
Yerba Mate: The term “Yerba” means “herb” in Spanish, while “Mate” comes from the Quechua word “mati,” which refers to the traditional gourd used to drink the infusion.
Maybe I’m just a junkie. but I, too, like the people of the Southern Cone - Argentinians, Southern Brazilians, Uruguayans and Paraguayans, - struggle to put down the mate during the day.
Interestingly, not many Australians I’ve met here in Buenos Aires seem to get around the whole mate setup. I must admit, it took me at least a year of living here to fully appreciate it.
What is Yerba Mate?
Yerba mate is a traditional South American beverage made from the dried leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. The drink is prepared by steeping the dried leaves (known as “yerba”) in hot water, typically in a hollowed-out gourd (mate), and sipped through a metal straw called a bombilla.
Yerba mate plant thrives in a subtropical climate.
Brazil leads as the top producer, contributing approximately 53% of the global production, particularly from the southern states like Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, and Santa Catarina. Argentina follows with about 37% of the production, mainly from the Misiones province. Paraguay contributes around 10% of the production.
The mate infusion has Guaraní (Paraguayan) origins. Native populations in the region consumed this plant in various forms and for different purposes. A Spanish conquestador first document its consumption, specifically in what is now Paraguay in the year 1531.
In the 17th century, the Jesuit order began cultivating and domesticating yerba mate. However, in 1769, they were expelled from the Americas, halting the organised cultivation until it restarted in the early 1900s.
In Uruguay, people proudly claim yerba mate as their own, and they’re incredibly passionate about it, often seen carrying mate gourds and thermoses everywhere they go. In Argentina, mate is also a cultural staple, with many people considering it an Argentine tradition. The country has a large-scale production of yerba mate and a strong marketing presence, making it an integral part of daily life.
The Health Benefits:
After reading various studies on the health effects of yerba mate during my time in the Southern Cone, I’ve decided it’s time to write an article about this green tea-like beverage.
My Argentine girlfriend is helping me with this article. Those first few minutes in the morning before we’ve had our yerba mate can be quite volatile!
But do you really want to get involved in mate culture? Especially considering that people from the Southern Cone can’t seem to go anywhere during the day or night without their yerba mate setup.
Is yerba mate highly addictive, causing people to rely on it all day? Maybe, but all the research I’ve done suggests that it’s one of the healthiest ways to consume caffeine. It offers a tonne of benefits that even surpass those of green tea.
One of the world’s most respected neuroscientists Professor Andrew Huberman is a huge proponent of the yerba mate, he has his own brand which probably extends from his father being Argentine.
Andrew Huberman has discussed the benefits of yerba mate on multiple occasions, highlighting its positive effects on both physical and mental health. Some of the notable benefits he mentions include:
Neuroprotective Effects: Yerba mate protects dopaminergic neurons, which are important for movement and motivation. It may also increase dopamine receptors, potentially enhancing mood and cognitive function.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Yerba mate helps manage blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for metabolic health.
Antioxidant Content: The drink is rich in antioxidants, which reduce oxidative stress and lower the risk of diseases caused by free radicals.
Appetite Suppression and Fat Mobilization: Yerba mate increases the release of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which can act as an appetite suppressant and aid in fat mobilization, contributing to weight management.
Energy and Focus: Similar to coffee, yerba mate contains caffeine, which increases alertness and focus. Additionally, it contains electrolytes, which are crucial for nerve function and overall hydration.
One of the most significant studies I’ve come across: A 2014 study highlighted that consuming 100 mg of yerba mate an hour before exercise increased fat oxidation by 24%, enhancing fat burning and overall caloric expenditure during workouts. The study also mentions yerba mate’s potential to reduce visceral fat and improve blood sugar levels.
Different Yerbas:
You can find bags of yerba mate virtually everywhere in Argentina. It’s available in small corner stores known as “kioskos,” at service stations, supermarkets, and even in Chinese supermarkets.
If you’re on a road trip in Argentina, every fuel station typically offers a hot water fill-up point for your thermos and a wide selection of yerba mate bags. Yerba mate is bloody great on long drives!
My plan one day - buy one of those Toyota Fortunas turbo diesel 4WD and drive the whole of Ruta 40 - the spine road of Argentine - along the mountain ranges of Patagonia, stopping off in small towns, eating local produce and travelling until the very north of the country - I will need plenty of yerba mate for this!
The largest yerba mate producers in Argentina include: (mostly all founded by European immigrants).
Las Marias (brands: Unión, La Merced, Mañanita, and Taragüi).
Playadito (brand), produced by Cooperativa Liebig, founded in 1926 by German immigrants.
Establecimiento Las Maras (brand: Rosamonte), founded by a German immigrant
CBSé (various yerbas), founded by a Polish immigrant.
La Cachuera (brand: Amanda), founded by a Polish immigrant.
Establecimiento Santa Ana (brand: Cruz de Malta.
Yerba Brand Recommendations:
Unión Orginal:
A softer, less acidic, good starter and entry point, my girlfriend’s favourite.
It is a suitable choice for beginners or those who prefer a softer taste.
The cut of Union Suave includes a good balance of traditional Argentine leaves and stems (con palo), with a noticeable amount of dust that helps maintain the traditional mountain of mate.
The price for a 500g bag in Argentina is $3.712,5 ARS or US$3.00 (blue dollar rate).
La Merced - De Campo:
Known for its classic and balanced flavour profile, making it a popular choice among yerba mate enthusiasts. It comes with a traditional Argentine con palo cut. The flavour is described as light, smooth, and not overly sweet or bitter, which makes it great for both beginners and experienced drinkers.
The price for a 500g bad in Argentina is ARS$3,870 = US$3.10.
Playadito: (German - I love this brand)
Know for a light, non-smoky, and non-bitter profile, distinguishing it from many traditional Argentine mates, which can be harsher and more bitter.
The price for a 500g bag in Argentina is ARS$2,430 or US$2.00. (cheapest) (US$15 per 500g bag in Australia).
Cosmico: (I’m a big fan of this brand that a two influencers recently started, it’s all over social media here, and you can find it in main supermarkets in Buenos Aires such as Coto)
From the province of Misiones, Argentina, known for its fertile lands and traditional cultivation methods. This yerba mate is notable for its softer smooth, earthy flavour with subtle woody and sweet notes, making it accessible for both new and experienced yerba mate drinkers.
This stuff is hitting me hard! I know it says soft but I’ve been drinking it most days this week and it’s hitting me like a rocket before the gym session - loving it!
The price for a 500g bag in Argentina is ARS$3,550 or US$2.90. (or US$8.00 on online stores for the US).
Pampa Organica: You can buy organic brands from specialist shops here in Buenos Aires. My pick of those and one I buy often is Pampa.
The price for a 500g bag in Argentina is ARS$4,700 or US$3.90.
Steps to Get Started:
Now, let’s say I’ve convinced you to give it a go.
Do it the proper Argentine way! I’ll show you how I prepare it every morning, as taught to me by Argentines. This is the traditional way, similar to how the gauchos in the pampas or the first German settlers in Misiones province did it, who arguably started one of the most famous yerba brands, Playadito!
Buy a mate cup - either a de madera (wooden) or de calabaza (traditional gourd made from pumpkin). These cups are tough and, with proper care, can last you for years!
Buy a bombilla (metal straw) - try to avoid the one that has the spring at the bottom and has the strainer filter instead (below).
3. Buy a large thermos (termo) - Stanley is the best quality.
Buy your pick of yerba - The yerba mate selections mentioned above are among the favourites for both me and my girlfriend.
Once you have your whole yerba mate setup, it’s important to properly prepare or “cure” your mate gourd, especially if it’s made from wood or gourd. The curing process helps to seal the pores, prevent cracking, and impart a better flavour to your mate - leave yerba in the mate to soak with hot water for 24 hours!
Preparing and Drinking:
When preparing yerba mate, use hot water at 70-80°C (160-175°F) only. Make sure to tip the mate cup upside down to achieve the right distribution of the yerba. This process helps ensure that the finer yerba dust settles properly, preventing you from ending up with leaves and stems in your drink.
Typically, drink all the water in the mate as soon as you’ve filled it up; there is no need to wait too long for a brewing process. You can refill the gourd with hot water from the thermos anywhere from 5-10 times with the same yerba, depending on how long the yerba holds its taste without losing flavour. The number of refills is subjective and varies based on personal preference.
How to Buy Yerba Mate Outside of the Southern Cone of South America:
Here are some websites where you can purchase yerba mate and all the necessary accessories online:
Australia:
Yerba Mate Australia - Offers a wide range of yerba mate products imported directly from South America. They provide brands like Taragüi, Playadito, and more, along with accessories like bombillas and gourds. Visit Website
Chile Mojo - Based in Australia, this store offers a selection of yerba mate along with other Latin American products. Visit Website
Pampa Direct - An online store specializing in South American products, including a variety of yerba mate options. Visit Website
United States/Canada/Europe:
Un Mate - This official store offers a comprehensive selection of yerba mate products, including popular brands and accessories. Visit Website
The Argentino - An online store that sells a variety of yerba mate brands and other Argentine products. Visit Website
Pampa Direct - Also available in the US, this store provides a selection of yerba mate from different brands. Visit Website
Mateina - Andrew Huberman’s brand - you can buy a whole yerba mate starter pack from their website for US$80.00. Visit Website.
Article Summary:
I’ve fully adapted to the yerba mate lifestyle and drink it every day, starting as soon as I wake up and continuing until I head to the gym.
I’ve found that drinking yerba mate and taking a lot of creatine before hitting the gym really enhances my workout. The combination gives a great pump and energy boost!
It’s also fantastic for road trips, hikes throughout Argentine Patagonia, and, of course, at the beach.
My body feels great on it, I’m probably addicted.
But, unlike the Argentines, I usually avoid drinking it after 2 PM. This is because some sleep experts I listen to advise against consuming caffeine 12 hours before bedtime to ensure it doesn’t interfere with sleep. 2 AM can be considered close enough to bedtime in Argentina!
I like the evidence I’ve seen with it and Andrew Huberman’s commentary. It’s a scientifically proven strong fat burner, a big mood enhancer, and rich in nutrients - packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, C, and E, as well as calcium, manganese, and zinc. It also helps improve digestion and boosts immune function due to its antioxidant properties.
It might take a while to embrace it fully into your routine, I had a few phases off and on when I first started.
Give it a go the Argentine way, from wherever you are in the world, and see how you feel!
If you made it this far you must be interested in it, let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks for reading!
Jordan - Geólogo Trader 🇦🇺
This is awesome, glad you are spreading the gospel. In the mountains of Colorado USA and I drink La Merced every morning! We offer it at my stationery/pen shop/coffee bar and I will say yerba mate is fairly popular, though nowhere near levels of espresso etc.
Thanks for the article Jordan, I've tried a few Yerbas due to the Argentine Ex & do enjoy them. There are 2 other varieties in the caffeinated holly family - Guayusa & Yaupon.
I really like Guayasa! Tastes better to me. Just like Playadito, they don't smoke it during preparation, (and as a result there's less carcinogens in it) . I haven't tried Playadito though, maybe thats the one for me.
Havent tried Yaupon yet.