Yerba mate is more than just a simple drink in South America, especially in countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil. This infusion is consumed in a particular way, in a sort of ritual that brings people together around a "mate round." Here are some curiosities and customs about yerba mate that you might not know.
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A tree called Ilex paraguariensis: Yerba mate comes from a tree called Ilex paraguariensis, native to the Paranaense forest in South America. This tree can grow up to 15 meters high, although it is generally kept at a pruning height of 4 to 6 meters to facilitate harvesting.
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The legend of yerba mate: The Guarani, one of the indigenous ethnic groups in the region, have a beautiful legend explaining the origin of yerba mate. According to the legend, yerba mate was a gift from the Moon Goddess to an elderly couple who had saved her from a jaguar.
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Preparation process: Yerba mate is harvested, dried, and then stored for several months to develop its characteristic flavor. Finally, the leaves and stems are ground to obtain the final product.
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The mate ritual: In the Rioplatense culture, sharing mate has a strong sense of ritual and community. One person (the pourer) prepares the mate and passes it one by one in the round of people, refilling it with water each time. It's not just about drinking, but about sharing, chatting, and spending a good time.
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Health and yerba mate: Yerba mate is known for its stimulating effects, due to its caffeine content. However, it's also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and has been shown to have health benefits, such as improving focus and reducing fatigue. Some studies even suggest it can help lose weight and improve heart health.
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More than a vessel: The vessel in which the mate is drunk also has its story. Traditionally, a gourd is used, known as "mate," although nowadays you can also find mates made of wood, bone, ceramic, or metal. The straw, a sort of straw with a filter at the end, is used to drink the infusion.
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A national symbol: In Argentina, yerba mate is so popular that November 30 is celebrated as "National Mate Day." The date was established to honor Andrés Guacurarí y Artigas, an indigenous leader who was one of the first to grow and market yerba mate.
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Yerba mate in space: Did you know that yerba mate has traveled to space? Argentine astronaut Marcos Pontes took yerba mate to the International Space Station in 2006, making it the first infusion of its kind to be consumed in space.
Yerba mate, with its unique flavor and characteristic ritual, is more than just a simple drink. It's a tradition that has survived through the centuries, bringing people together and providing a moment of relaxation and enjoyment amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. Next time you drink mate, remember all these curiosities and customs that make it so special!
