Yerba mate, commonly referred to as mate, is a herbal infusion that holds a significant place in the traditional beverage culture of Latin and South America. This invigorating drink is crafted by steeping dried leaves from the yerba mate plant in hot water. Whether served cold or hot, yerba mate offers a revitalizing experience akin to black or green tea due to its caffeine content, promoting heightened alertness and concentration.
Mate, a cherished South American beverage, enjoys widespread popularity in regions such as Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Understanding its historical roots is crucial to appreciating its significance.
The tradition of drinking mate dates back to the Guaraní people, indigenous to various South American territories, as illuminated by the research of poet and journalist Amaro Villanueva. Initially, they either chewed the leaves directly or infused them in a calabash gourd with water for sipping. The term “mate” originates from the Guarani word “Caa-mate” (“Caa” referring to plant or grass, while “mate” denotes the gourd). Other indigenous groups such as the Incas, the Charrua’s, and even the Araucanos adopted mate from the Guaraní. For these communities, the mate plant held sacred significance, bestowed upon them by the gods, beyond its nutritional value.
Mate rapidly gained popularity among Spanish colonisers in South America due to its myriad benefits. Yerba mate spread across Spanish-controlled territories, with the Jesuits notably promoting its consumption in their settlements, albeit in a boiled form without the traditional gourd. It was later revealed by French naturalist Aimé Bonpland that mate plants thrived only in specific South American regions, a discovery made half a century after the Jesuits’ efforts.
During Argentina’s struggle for independence in the 19th century, mate became ingrained in the country’s cultural fabric, particularly among the “gauchos,” akin to Argentine cowboys. Mate consumption became an integral aspect of gaucho culture, alongside horsemanship and leather attire. Gauchos partook in mate rituals, sharing the beverage during meals and even before retiring for the night.
Yerba mate flourishes in Argentina, Paraguay, and southern Brazil, where ideal temperature, soil, and humidity conditions prevail.
Mate remains a staple of everyday life for the average Argentine, akin to its significance among the old gauchos. It is enjoyed in homes, offices, parks, and universities, not only for its health benefits but also for the social camaraderie it fosters.
Mate, a South American tea, has garnered widespread popularity among some of the world’s leading footballers, including Messi, Suarez, Griezmann & England players. Esteemed for its health benefits, mate isn’t just a beverage; its preparation and consumption represent a communal event, bringing individuals together in a shared experience.
Elite athletes continuously seek methods to enhance their performance, and even minor adjustments in lifestyle, training, and diet can significantly impact their athletic achievements. Recently, the consumption of mate has seen a surge among footballers, a trend that has travelled from South America to Europe, embraced by individuals seeking to optimize their physical capabilities.
Notably, this beverage is not only favoured by top athletes but also by prominent figures such as Pope Francis, highlighting its cultural significance and widespread appeal.
