CLOSE OUT WHILE SUPPLIES LAST - Russell's Herb Tea - Yerba Mate / Green (1 LB)

Naturally caffeine free herbal.

Yerba mate (yer-bah mah-tay) is the naturally caffeine-filled leaves of the South American rainforest holly tree (Ilex paraguariensis). It is also the name of the beverage made from the plant leaves and stems.

Mate was first consumed by the indigenous Guaraní people of Paraguay. It’s use became widespread among Spanish colonists in the late 16th century, and in time its use spread to all the countries of central and Southern South America. Yerba mate contains caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine, stimulants also found in tea, coffee and cocoa. The caffeine content varies between that of green tea and coffee.

Yerba mate is the national drink of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Southern Brazil, where it is preferred to coffee. In Argentina, most people drink yerba mate with a gourd and bombilla, a long metal straw with a perforated bulb-shaped end designed to hold the mate leaves.

To brew Yerba Mate without a gourd and bombilla, steep a half-ounce of Yerba Mate for 3 minutes in water that is hot, but not boiling (160-175°F) strain or filter, and serve. Sweeten with sugar or honey.

Country of Origin: Argentina

America’s tea customs date to colonial times, and the traditions of English tea service. Today there is a new interest in teas in the United States. Teas tisanes, herbals, and red bush (rooibos) teas are gaining in popularity. You will find a diverse tea collection under the Russell & Co. brand (part of the Gillies family for over 65 years). We offer a selection from some of the world’s great origins and tea gardens for you to enjoy.