Native to South America, green Yerba Mate is a traditional drink with bold, distinctive aromas. Valued for its many properties, it is often associated with weight-management routines. Frequently described as a tea, it is worth clarifying: green Yerba Mate is not a tea. The leaves come from an entirely different plant family. Sometimes called the "Jesuits' Tea" or "Brazilian Tea", it is made from a single plant: yerba maté. Read on to discover the story of Mate and all its secrets.
Green Yerba Mate: Brazilian roots
Yerba Mate is a detox infusion straight from South America, made from the leaves of the Yerba Maté plant. This drink is not only enjoyed across Latin America; it has travelled far beyond, with a strong tradition of consumption in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon and Syria. Its properties have also won over Western drinkers, and it is becoming an increasingly popular choice. Its origins trace back to the Guaraní peoples, who had long been in the habit of infusing the plant's leaves. Yerba Mate belongs to the family of caffeinated drinks, making it a natural stimulant. As for its name, it comes from "mati", a type of gourd traditionally used to prepare Mate.
Green Mate vs. roasted Mate: what's the difference?
Yerba Mate comes in several forms. Brown Mate, for example, has been roasted, giving it a toastier flavour. How is it made? The leaves are exposed to direct heat, which develops a stronger, smokier aroma — the same process used in the making of coffee, cacao and beer.
Green Yerba Mate: benefits and properties
Mate enthusiasts love it for its unique flavour and its many wellbeing benefits. Like tea or coffee, it has powerful stimulating properties, making it ideal for fighting fatigue and giving you a natural boost in the morning. A cup of Mate offers the same morning lift as tea or coffee, and just like tea, Mate leaves are rich in antioxidants, giving them a detoxifying effect on the body. With regular consumption, Mate may also prove a valuable ally against bad cholesterol over the long term. And one of its most sought-after qualities: Mate supports weight management by helping to reduce water retention. It is also a natural source of vitamins, including vitamin A and vitamin C.
Why choose organic green Mate?
The health benefits are even greater when you choose organic. Tea and Mate leaves are not rinsed before brewing, so by choosing organic Yerba Maté, you can be confident your cup contains no pesticide residues. You also benefit from a purer, higher-quality infusion with fully preserved aromas. The benefits of green tea and Mate are far more pronounced when you brew organic.
Green Mate herbal infusion: how to prepare it
Curious about organic green Yerba Mate but not sure how to prepare it? Follow our advice to get the most out of every cup. Traditionally, Mate is prepared using a gourd and a bombilla. That said, you can also prepare it the Western way, just as you would any loose-leaf tea. One thing to note: Mate leaves can be steeped several times. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, and either way, you will appreciate its refreshing quality.
Green Mate for weight management
Mate has long been recognised as a powerful support for weight loss. First, for its diuretic effect: drinking Mate helps flush out water that accumulates beneath the skin, promoting deep drainage. Its appetite-suppressing quality is also highly valued: rather than reaching for a snack, a good cup of organic green Mate can help you feel satisfied. For best results, it is recommended to drink it without sugar.
Explore our range of organic Mate in loose-leaf form: green Mate, traditional Mate, and fruity blends (orange, pomegranate, mango-guava). Certified organic farming, delivery across mainland France.