Mate Argento

Welcome to Mate Argento

A place where you will find out about everything related to mate and where you will be able to acquire all the necessary equipment to enjoy this popular and tasty drink.

What is yerba mate and how is it consumed?

Yerba mate is a perennial shrub that grows in forested and mountainous areas and its leaves are used to prepare an infusion that is traditionally consumed in the countries of Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Brazil and Chile. Today its consumption has spread throughout the world being one of the main infusions.

The mate is prepared in a container called “mate” (also “pumpkin”) which is filled with 2/3 parts of yerba and a bombilla is placed, which is a kind of tube with a filter at one end. Subsequently, hot water is added (not boiling because it burns the yerba) until all the yerba is moistened. It is important not to overflow the mate with water to prolong the use of the yerba and enjoy mates with an intense flavor.

Mate is considered a social and cultural drink in the region, since it is usually shared in a group, and it is associated with moments of relaxation and friendship. Apart from successful soccer players like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, its habitual consumption is present in public figures such as Pope Francis, Barack Obama, Madonna, Kevin Bacon, James Hetfield, Neymar, and hundreds of other celebrities.

What benefits and properties does yerba mate have?

Mate, apart from being an exquisite infusion, has an extensive amount of beneficial properties for health:

Antioxidant

Yerba mate is rich in polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants. These antioxidants help prevent cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Strengthens the immune system

Yerba mate contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, which help strengthen the immune system.

Anti-inflammatory

Yerba mate contains anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce inflammation and pain in the body.

Digestive

Yerba mate is known for its digestive properties. It can help relieve indigestion and improve gastrointestinal function.

Reduces cholesterol

Yerba mate contains compounds that may help lower LDL cholesterol levels in the body (commonly known as “bad” cholesterol) and increase HDL cholesterol levels (known as “good” cholesterol).

Weightloss

Yerba mate can help reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, which can help with weight control. Yerba mate contains bioactive compounds such as caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, which can stimulate metabolism and increase calorie burning.

Stimulating

Yerba mate contains caffeine, which is a natural stimulant. Helps increase energy and improve concentration.

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Yerba mate process

The yerba mate production process has several stages, from the harvest of the leaves to the final packaging. Learn about this unique and interesting process.

Learn the process

Its use and varieties

Preparing and enjoying mate is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. Try the different variants and find your favorite to enjoy this nutritious and energizing drink with friends and family!

LEARN ABOUT MATE

Equipment

To enjoy mate properly it is important to have the necessary equipment. There are different types of mates available, from ceramic and glass mates to hand-carved wooden mates, and different styles of bombillas. Each one has its own unique personality and characteristics, making the choice of a mate a personal decision.

GET THE EQUIPMENT

Where is the mate from?

Mate is a traditional drink that originated in the South American region, more specifically in the countries of Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and parts of Brazil. These countries are the main producers and consumers of yerba mate. The yerba mate plant, scientifically known as Ilex paraguariensis, grows natively in these areas and is cultivated for yerba mate production.

The first records of yerba mate consumption date back to the indigenous cultures of South America, long before the arrival of European colonizers. It is estimated that the Guarani tribes, who mainly inhabited the regions of Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil, were the first to use yerba mate and develop its preparation method.

The Guarani considered yerba mate a sacred plant and used it in ritual ceremonies and as a stimulating drink. They also believed in its medicinal properties and used it to treat various ailments.

When Spanish colonizers arrived in South America in the 16th century, they found widespread consumption of yerba mate among indigenous populations. They soon adopted the custom and spread it among the colonies, expanding its consumption throughout the centuries.

How to cure the mate?

The process to cure the mate is extremely important for those gourd or wood gourds. The procedure is simple and is performed as follows:

1 – Wash the container with hot water at 176 °F (80 °G.). In this way we disinfect and eliminate bacteria, dust and fibers.

2 – Fill the container with yerba and add lukewarm water little by little until the surface is moist. When the yerba has absorbed the water, we add more water again so that it continues to absorb the yerba until the container is completely filled.

3 – We leave the mate to rest between 24 and 48 hours. We must add warm water so that the herb always remains moist.

4 – After the stipulated time, we will proceed to wash the mate with hot water between 70° and 80° (158°F / 176°F). The mate will already be cured and ready to start enjoying some delicious mates.