About yerb
Yerba mate originated in South America, where It was originally consumed by the Guaraní people, who lived in what today is Paraguay. They originally consumed the leaves of the yerba mate plant by chewing them. Over the centuries, it has gained popularity for its unique flavor and energizing properties. The drink's popularity has spread beyond its traditional borders, with many people around the world embracing it as a healthier alternative to coffee or energy drinks due to its high antioxidant content and moderate caffeine levels.
​What's the difference between yerba mate (hot) and tereré (cold)?
Yerba mate is traditionally consumed using a cuia, while tereré is often consumed using a guampa or cylindrical metal gourd.
When brewed hot (mate), you can expect a bolder, stronger, and more flavorful infusion. And when brewed cold (tereré), you can expect the opposite – a softer, milder, and more refreshing drink. And this is all due to the temperature difference.
Tereré is made by steeping yerba mate leaves in cold water, and often includes additional herbs or fruits.
Tereré is the national drink of Paraguay (and also enjoyed in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil). Made using the same yerba as in other parts of South America, but prepared with cold water or juice.
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Yerba mate is not technically tea because it doesn't come from the Camellia sinensis plant, which is the source of tea. Instead, yerba mate is made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, a member of the holly family.
Yerba mate tastes like tea but has the energy boost of coffee. A cup of Yerba Mate has caffeine similar to coffee, but repeated steeping can increase the caffeine intake. Most drinkers report that it just hits different, like a “cool caffeine effect”