Organic yerba mate is a beverage that is made from the leaves and stems of a holly-like tree or shrub that is grown and harvested using completely natural methods in the rain forests of South America. It is one the most commonly consumed beverages in South America, similar in popularity to that of coffee in the United States. It is often consumed hot, from a gourd, but can be used to make iced beverages as well. Organic yerba mate is high in caffeine and concentrations of many vitamins. It is reputed to have health benefits such as improving mental alertness, stimulating weight loss, and raising energy levels.
The scientific name of the plant that organic yerba mate is made from is Ilex paraguariensis. In order for the product to be considered organic, it must be grown using natural methods without any chemicals such as fertilizers or pesticides being used. It is sometimes harvested from plants growing wild in the rain forest. At other times it is grown by farmers using natural sustainable methods.
Organic yerba mate is immensely popular in several South American countries including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, where it is most often drunk from a traditional gourd with a metal straw called a bombilla. It is called "drink of the Gods" by some native rain forest tribes, and legend states that people have been able to survive periods of drought and famine by drinking it. It is also gaining popularity in other parts of the world for its reputed health benefits.
There are several health benefits attributed to organic yerba mate; many people claim it increases mental alertness and adds to a general feeling of well-being. Since it is considered a natural stimulant, it raises energy levels, with longer lasting effects than coffee or tea due to its nutritional content, and less unpleasant side effects. It contains many antioxidants that are thought to aid in the prevention of many types of cancer and other illnesses. It's also a natural diuretic, helping to eliminate excess fluid retention from the body. It is thought to enhance weight loss efforts together with diet and exercise.
As a natural stimulant, organic yerba mate contains several of the same compounds as coffee, tea and chocolate, notably caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. It has also been found by scientists to have 24 vitamins and minerals, 15 amino acids and numerous antioxidants. It is most often served hot, but it can be used to make iced drinks as well. As it gains popularity around the world, it's being sold as an iced beverage in cans and bottles, and in tea bags for preparing it hot. Some manufacturers also add natural flavors to make it appeal to a wide variety of tastes.
