Yerba mate is a plant scientifically known as Paraguayan holly. It has existed since antiquity and is part of the culinary tradition. It is known for its slightly bitter taste and for its benefits in the treatment of certain health ailments. It spreads naturally and is widely used by the inhabitants of the Paraná and Alto Uruguay basins, where it originated. Later it was cultivated on an organized scale and became the main ingredient of typical drinks. Yerba mate has maintained its prestige over time, mainly in South American countries such as Panama, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Chile, where it is a symbol of their culture. . However, many people do not know what is yerba mate.
For this reason, we are going to dedicate this article to tell you what yerba mate is, what are its characteristics and the main care it needs.
Contents
What is yerba mate
It is a subtropical tree native to the Paraná jungle, and in the wild it grows in the thickets of Alto Uruguay, the Alto Paraná basin and tributaries of the Paraguay River. In nature it can reach a height of 15 meters, while in plantations it becomes a small bush 11 cm long with a branching trunk. commercially, It is grown in Argentina, the world’s leading producer of yerba mate, followed by Brazil and Paraguay.
It is an evergreen tree that does not fall in autumn, and the leaves last about 3 years on the plant. The branches emerge from the tree at right angles, with needles, green leaves with jagged edges and very marked yellow veins. It obtains mate from its dried leaves and crushed branches, a popular infusion from Paraguay, Argentina, southern Brazil, Bolivia, Uruguay and Chile.
During the flowering season (October-November) it produces white flowers, male specimens have 3-11 flowers and females 3-11 loose flowers per dioecious. The fruit ripens from January to March and is purple, reddish or black when ripe. The harvest of yerba mate is done manually, from January to May and continues until September. After harvest, the yerba mate tree will grow more leaves.
Properties and habitat
This plant is found in tropical or subtropical regions where there is abundant humidity and rainfall, such as mountains and ravine forests. As for the ground, prefers clay or sand, with some acidity. It does well in low areas with adequate drainage and depth. Also in areas where the famous red or red earth is found. This provides nutrients like laterite and various minerals to support normal growth.
One of the most remarkable properties of yerba mate is its antioxidants. Therefore, it is used to prevent cell aging. It also renews the body’s natural defenses and prevents cardiovascular diseases, since it reduces the so-called bad cholesterol.
Yerba mate contains caffeine and theophylline, which stimulate the central nervous system and stimulate mental activity and concentration. Minerals like potassium are essential for the proper functioning of the heart. It also contains magnesium which is ideal for helping the body absorb protein. It contains amino acids and B vitamins, necessary for energy production.
Other health-protecting properties of the plant are its diuretic, depurative, vasoconstrictor, bronchodilator, laxative and healing properties. It is said to stimulate cognitive activity.
Reproduction and uses of yerba mate
Yerba mate can be propagated by seed, but it is not easy as it requires a careful process. Seeds are harvested from the fruit of the mother plant and then they are replanted in a controlled space. When the seedlings germinate, they move to a large area where they finish forming. If you want to multiply faster, you can do it by cuttings, layering and grafting. Pollination is carried out by insects.
Different types of drinks are prepared from the dried and crushed leaves and branches of this herb. Mate, tereré and cocido stand out, but the most popular is mate. In Argentina and Uruguay it is eaten as a candy. In other countries like Paraguay, it is eaten bitter or with hot milk when it rains.
This infusion is made with hot water and loose yerba mate. It is best to take it in a container made of wood or similar material with a straw, a cigarette or a light bulb. Tereré is drunk from guambá, a wooden or horn container. This is typical of Paraguay and is mostly prepared with ice water due to the high temperature. Mint or orange or lemon zest is usually added.
Cocido is a boiled yerba mate. After boiling, strain and add the sugar. It is taken with milk. In Paraguay it is used as a substitute for morning coffee. More than drinks, mates and trere are customs in the Southern Cone. There is a ritual or social act to ingest them. Depending on the drink chosen, it is called Tererada or Mateada. This includes sharing with friends or family who meet and chat. All participants drink from the same container and the same straw.
Being a ritual, it has its rules and must be respected. If someone is invited, it means the group appreciates it and you want to share it with them. It was an intimate, enjoyable and meaningful experience for all who shared it.
The largest producers of yerba mate in the world are Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay. The country that imports the most yerba mate is Uruguay, followed by Chile and the United States. Argentinian yerba mate is mainly purchased by Syria. The second country is Chile, but in much smaller numbers.
Advantages
Yerba mate is very good for your health and here we show you some of its benefits for the body.
- Yerba mate tea supports cardiovascular health as it contains high amounts of antioxidantswhich can prevent various heart diseases, regulate cholesterol and prevent the accumulation of fat in the arteries.
- It also increases good cholesterol, which prevents heart attacks.
- Helps slow down the aging process since its antioxidants prevent cell wear and oxidation
I hope with this information you can learn more about what yerba mate is and its characteristics.