What is yerba mate?

Yerba mate (pronounced “yer-bah mah-tay”) is a green herbal infusion made from the leaves of the South American holly Ilex paraguariensis. Traditionally it’s prepared in a hollowed gourd and enjoyed through a bombilla (a metal straw with a filter). Friends pass the gourd; conversations stretch; the kettle hums.

• Smoother energy than coffee for many people.
• More oomph than green tea.
• Fits modern routines: hot in the morning, iced in the afternoon, or sipped all day from a thermos.
• Feels authentic, with real culture behind it—not just another “functional” fad.
  
  

What does yerba mate feel like?

Most newcomers describe mate’s energy as calm focus. You’re alert, not jittery; motivated, not buzzed. Many people find they can write, study, train or hold conversations for longer without the edgy restlessness coffee can bring.

Mate has caffeine plus theobromine (cacao) and theophylline alongside antioxidants. For many, the combo feels steadier—clear head + balanced body.

• Coffee: fast spike → jitters → crash.
• Green tea: gentle lift → light focus.
• Yerba mate: sustained, even energy → gentle landing.

Curious to feel the difference? Start with our Ultimate Mate Starter Kit — gourd, bombilla and loose leaf in one box.

What does it taste like?

Expect an herby, green, slightly bitter profile—like green tea with more backbone. Prefer mellow? Add honey, a slice of lemon or some mint, or brew a little shorter.

• Use 70–80°C water, not boiling (boiling emphasises bitterness).
• Start with 2–3 tsp per 250ml and adjust.
• Try unsmoked styles for a cleaner, “greener” flavour.

Yerba mate vs coffee & tea (quick comparison)

Featured snippet tip: Yerba mate is a South American herbal tea that gives smooth, long-lasting energy—stronger than green tea but gentler than coffee.

How to brew yerba mate (no teabags required)

Featured snippet tip: Use 70–80°C water, steep 4–5 minutes, then sip. Start with 2–3 tsp per cup. For iced mate, brew stronger and pour over ice.

1) French press / cafetière (fast + consistent)

1. Add 2–3 tablespoons loose leaf per 500 ml of water.
2. Heat water to 70–80°C (let the kettle sit 3–4 minutes after boiling).
3. Pour, stir gently, and steep 4 minutes for bright; 5–6 for stronger.
4. Press and pour. Top up for a second, slightly lighter brew.

Already own a cafetière? Just add our Loose Leaf Yerba Mate and you’re set.

2) Traditional gourd & bombilla (the full ritual)

1. Fill the gourd ½–¾ full with loose leaf.
2. Cover the top, tip and shake to move fine particles up the walls.
3. Tilt leaves to create a slope; add a splash of cool water to moisten.
4. Insert the bombilla into the hollow side, then pour warm water (70–80°C).
5. Sip and top up repeatedly—one serving gives many refills.

Want the real experience? Our Beginner Yerba Mate Starter Kit includes the gourd, bombilla and loose leaf.

When should I drink it?

• Morning focus: Replace your second coffee.
• Pre-workout: 30–45 minutes before training for clean drive.
• Study / deep work: Locked-in focus without frantic energy.
• Afternoon slump: Iced mate is wildly refreshing.

How much should I use?

Think of mate like coffee or strong tea—1–3 servings per day is typical. If you’re caffeine-sensitive, start with smaller amounts and earlier in the day.

How to choose your first yerba mate (and avoid common mistakes)

• Pick unsmoked for your first bag—cleaner, greener and friendlier for new palates.
• Mind the water temperature: boiling water = bitter. Let it cool to 70–80°C.
• Don’t overcomplicate it: a French press is perfect to begin.
• Try the ritual when you’re ready: the gourd and bombilla turn making mate into a mindful moment.

4 simple recipes to make this week

1. Citrus Morning Mate: Brew hot; add a slice of lemon, a tsp of honey, and a pinch of sea salt.
2. Mint Iced Mate: Brew double-strength, chill, pour over ice with a handful of fresh mint.
3. Ginger Lime Boost: Add a few slices of fresh ginger while steeping; finish with lime.
4. Cacao Comfort: Stir in 1 tsp cocoa powder and a splash of milk (dairy or oat).

How mate compares for common goals

• Focus at work/study: Many report fewer jitters and steadier concentration vs coffee.
• Gym: Take a serving 30–45 minutes pre-session for clean drive; iced mate is great for conditioning days.
• Gut comfort: Lower acidity can feel nicer than coffee for some.
• Mood: The theobromine combo often feels more “upbeat” than wired.

Culture & community: more than a drink

Mate is shared. The act of brewing, pouring and refilling creates a natural pause in the day and a reason to sit together for a few minutes. In the UK we’re remixing that tradition—sipping from a thermos on the train, passing a gourd at the climbing wall, or brewing a French press before deep-work blocks.

Share your first pour: tag @YesMate and #ShareYourGourd. We feature our favourite UK shots monthly.

Ready to start? Grab the Ultimate Mate Starter Kit (1kg loose leaf, gourd, bombilla, thermos).