Yerba mate is a popular, energizing South American drink that’s known for its various health benefits and great energy buzz.

Preparing and brewing yerba mate is as enjoyable as drinking it, it doesn’t have to be complicated like many make it seem, it can be made with equipment you already use to make coffee or tea!

While we will go over traditional ways to make yerba mate here as well this guide will give you the confidence to make it and get the benefits today without fuss. 

What is Yerba Mate Tea?

It’s known for its unique flavor and the health benefits it provides, and is a popular choice for many people across the globe.

Origin and History

Yerba Mate tea has a rich history dating back to ancient South American civilizations, particularly among the Guarani people.

Traditionally, it was consumed as a ceremonial drink and it was believed to have medicinal properties.

Over time, it gained popularity outside South America and is now enjoyed globally.

Health Benefits

Yerba Mate tea is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which help boost the immune system, improve focus, and help with digestion.

In addition to caffeine, a natural stimulant called Theobromine can also be found in yerba mate and can help boost brain function, make breathing easier, increase mood & motivation, and relieve stress.

Many report that Yerba Mate may also have anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering properties, which is beneficial for overall health.

Caffeine Content and Nutritional Value

In essence, yerba mate tea offers a delightful blend of flavor, health benefits, and a gentle energy kick, making it a versatile beverage for various occasions. Whether you savor it for its cultural significance, enjoy it for its wellness perks, or drink every morning instead of coffee like us, yerba mate tea continues to captivate tea enthusiasts, coffee and energy drink alternative seekers alike with its rich tradition, modern appeal and amazing buzz!

Unlike coffee, yerba mate contains a moderate amount of caffeine paired with theobromine, and gives a gentle energy boost without the crash.

Apart from caffeine, yerba mate is also a great source of vitamins B and C, magnesium, and antioxidants.

How To Brew Yerba Mate Tea

Brewing yerba mate can be done in various ways to suit different preferences. Here are some ways you can make loose leaf yerba mate starting with our favorite:

Brew Yerba Mate Just Like You Do Coffee!

Start with 1 tbsp Wild Era Yerba Mate for every 16oz of water (increase to as much as you want!). Use just like you would in your drip coffee maker: add water, place filter, add yerba mate to the filter, press on, and go! You will soon be saying “ahhhhhh” with a big smile, just like us, when you take that first sip in the morning.

Brew Loose Yerba Mate Using Any Other Loose Leaf Method  

Follow these steps and adjust based on your liking:

• Add 1-2 tbsp of yerba mate to a strainer or French Press
• Moisten the herb with cool water to protect the flavor
• Add 8-10oz of 180ºF water
• Add honey, milk or any sweetener if you want to enhance flavor
• Steep 4-5 minutes
• Enjoy!

Cold Brew Yerba Mate

Also called Tereré, drinking cold brew yerba mate on a hot day is the bomb! Just thinking about the energy and mood buzz that we get from drinking a cold mate in the afternoon gets us excited. Here are three ways to easily make it:

1) Make hot yerba mate with any method above but make it double strength and then let cool and/or add ice. Easy peasy! Enjoy!

2) Use 2 tbsp Wild Era Yerba Mate (or more) for every 16oz cold water. Add directly to the water in a jar and let sit for 12-24 hours. Then strain with a coffee filter or strainer. Add milk, sugar, or drink plain. 

3) The traditional way:

• Fill a glass, gourd or a metal cup two-thirds with loose yerba mate
• Prepare a refreshing beverage, like lemonade, or just water
• Insert a bombilla to the cup
• Pour small sips of beverage into cup or gourd…enjoy!

Brew Yerba Mate the Traditional Way with a Gourd and Bombilla

The traditional South American way to enjoy yerba mate is using a gourd and bombilla. Here’s how to prepare it:

• Fill half your gourd with loose yerba mate (approximately 50g)
• Rotate to a 45º angle to form a slope/pit of mate
• Soak the pit with cool water
• Place your bombilla into the gourd and slide it under the pit of mate
• Slowly fill the gourd with 180ºF water

It’s really that easy!! 

Our loose leaf teas are one size fits all - we tried tons of South American teas so you don't have to!

These premium teas are great for anyone new to drinking tea or long time connoisseurs! If you are a coffee drinker or energy drink fiend looking for a change this is a great place to start.

It doesn’t have to be complicated.

Our goal is to enable you to enjoy our loose leaf teas without the fuzz and get that unique Wild Era Buzz to seize the day.

You can try any of our meticulously formulated products and if you don’t love them we will give you a full refund.

We invite you to join the ride and are grateful for your support! 

From California With Love -Wild Era Team