Before the chemistry composition of mate was discovered by experts, the guaranies used yerba mate not only for its flavor, but also for its virtues. Yerba mate is energizing and hydrating.
Before drinking mate it’s important to know what yerba mate is. The yerba mate is not an herb, but a tree similar to laurel. It’s frequent in jungles, like Missiones, Argentina. The little leaves of yerba mate grow up in a nursery and six months later are translated to the countryside. Once they are harvested they undergo a series of processes. First, the leaves receive direct fire to stop enzymatic processes and conserve their color. Then, they are dried to avoid humidity. After that, the leaves are triturated. Finally, the leaves are taken to maturation cameras for two weeks. In the last stage the leaves acquire the flavor and aroma of yerba mate. After the leaves are ready to consume, the leaves are classified in order to get the wanted yerba mate. In some cases, the yerba mate may have twigs or aromatic herbs. Different yerba mates are made to change the flavor or to decrease the effect of caffeine.
The yerba mate is rich in vitamins B-1, B-2, C y A. These vitamins stimulate muscular and lung activity. It also contains potassium, sodium and magnesium. These three components provide energy and increase concentration. Yerba mate acts as antioxidant, which protect us against cellular destruction that causes the deterioration of the body. As coffee has caffeine, mate has mateine, which stimulates the nervous system. The difference between them is that mateine doesn't cause insomnia at night, while coffee does. Lastly, yerba mate helps digestion and nutrient absorption.
To learn more about mate and its history go to Resources.
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The picture of the yerba mate was taken from Pixadus.
The picture of the leaves of yerba mate was taken from Guayaqui.
