Why is yerba mate going to become the next big healthy drink in Europe?
Updated: Aug 30, 2021
What is yerba mate ?
Mate is a traditional South American drink obtained by infusing the leaves (yerba mate) of the Ilex Paraguariensis tree cultivated in the subtropical regions of Latin America.
A bit of history
Originally defended by the Guarani, who considered it a divine drink, hence the name "drink of the gods", the history of yerba mate goes back several centuries.
Today, this delicious drink is still being enjoyed all over the world, especially in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil where it is a true religion, like tea in England or coffee in Italy.
Yerba Mate in Europe
Mate is gradually becoming more popular in Europe. In 2019, the European Union imported 5,046,857 euros worth of Yerba Mate, which represents an increase of 12.8% compared to 2018.
We are delighted with this trend, and this article will give you the arguments that convinced us that this drink has the potential to be a perfect alternative to the traditional tea and coffee, which have been saturating the hot beverage market in Europe for many years.
The virtues of mate
In recent years, scientists have taken a closer look at yerba mate and have made surprising discoveries about the benefits of this infusion.
Stimulates body and mind
The xanthines (Theophylline, Theobromine and Caffeine) present in mate stimulate the nervous system and increase cognitive abilities such as concentration and memory. Moreover, unlike coffee, the theobromine that resides in mate allows a soft and long-lasting stimulation (twice as long as the stimulation provided by coffee).
Burns fat and facilitates digestion
Yerba mate has long been used against obesity as it helps the body burn fat and aids digestion.
Contains many antioxidants to strengthen the immune system
This healthy drink is also very rich in antioxidants (90% more than green tea). An antioxidant is a molecule capable of delaying or preventing the oxidation of other molecules. In fact, oxidative stress has been associated with the pathogenesis of many human diseases such as breast and colon cancer.
Good fot the heart
Drinking mate also helps protect the heart system. The functionality of antioxidants and xanthines allows for a better dilatation of blood vessels, thus for improving blood circulation.
Powerful diuretic and detoxifier
Mate has a diuretic effect that improves the body's kidney function to eliminate toxins.
Thanks to its versatility, mate can be consumed in different ways
Argentinean and Uruguayan style
Traditionally, people drink mate by adding hot water to the mate recipient, which is ¾ filled with yerba mate and drinking the preparation with a special straw, commonly called “bombilla” that filters the infusion.
The tradition also recommends sharing the mate with the people around you. In Argentinean and Uruguayan households, it is cultural to share mate with your fellow man.
Paraguayan style
In subtropical countries like Paraguay, mate is drunk cold. This national drink is called "Terere".
Some people add pieces of fruit to this drink it or infuse it directly with their juices. The Kayari team has already experimented with several recipes of Terere for your pleasure.
Curious? We invite you to discover them on our website and social networks:
Its human values
The Guaraní tribes have always symbolized the mate ritual. Back then, it was already a tradition to share the gourd (recipient) filled with its yerba mate leaves with the people who were standing in the circle. This is a gesture of respect, integration, welcome, union and sharing! An overflowing generosity that is rarely found in other infusions and that continues to inspire human beings.
Scientific references:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19444227
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29871836
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4665436/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23270878
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18034743
#Kayariyerba #Yerbamate #drinkofthegods #Ilexparaguariensis #perfectalternatif #softenergy #Antioxidants #burnsfat #Protecteurcardiovasculaire #Bombilla #Terere