Yerba mate is a herbal tea that is prepared with the stems and leaves of a South American shrub. Potential health benefits of yerba mate include higher energy, reduced inflammation, lower blood sugar and cholesterol, improved exercise performance, and higher bone density.
Yerba mate is an integral part of Argentinian life, and its ceremony is tied to feelings of friendship and kinship, with both friends and strangers. The act of pouring and sharing mate is an act of love and dedication, governed by certain unwritten rules for those participating in the round.
Mate Rules:
Only say “thank you” when you don't want anymore.
Never move the bombilla (metal straw).
The cebador/a (person who brews and serves the mate) never changes.
The gourd is returned to them after every sip for a refill.
Yerba mate is served clockwise, so don't cut in line!
