The Story of  Yerba Mate

Yerba Mate is a tea-like drink enjoyed by millions across South America. It was first consumed by the indigenous Guaraní, some 400 years ago. In recent years, it has also gained popularity in North America and Europe, often embraced as a healthier alternative to coffee. And with good reason: mate is packed with bioactive compounds that may positively impact both body and mind. Think of vitamins (A, B, C, E, etc.), minerals (calcium, magnesium, iron, zink, selenium, kalium, fosfor etc.), more antioxidants than green tea, saponins, 15 amino acids, and stimulants like caffeine. 

What is Yerba Mate?

The word “yerba” refers to the dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, while “mate” is the name of the traditional gourd used to drink it. In its most authentic form (mate cebado), hot water is poured over the leaves, and the drink is sipped through a metal straw with a built-in filter, called a bombilla.
Alternatively, you can brew yerba mate like regular tea or coffee (mate cocido), depending on your preference. You can create your own ritual, your own moment.

A Favorite Among Champions

Research conducted by the Pasteur Institute and the Scientific Society of Paris concluded that yerba mate contains practically all the essential nutrients needed for a healthy life. It’s even been shown to play a key role in cell regeneration.

 

Thanks to its natural energy boost and health benefits, yerba mate has become a go-to drink for many top athletes, including football legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Paul Pogba, and Antoine Griezmann.

Key Health Benefits

Steady energy boost

Mate contains caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, a unique blend of stimulants that provide a long-lasting, balanced energy boost. Unlike coffee, mate delivers energy gradually, without the familiar spike and crash.
People often report increased focus, alertness, and motivation, without the jitters or heart palpitations that coffee can cause. Mate helps keep you sharp, even during stressful moments, and all in a natural way.

Soothes inflammation

In addition to vitamin C, mate also contains saponins, which are natural plant compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that help your body fight illness. They reduce the production of pro-inflammatory substances and protect tissues from damage. By regularly drinking mate, you naturally give your immune system an extra boost.

Strengthens the immune system

Mate is known as a powerful source of antioxidants. One of the key antioxidants is phenols, including chlorogenic acid which, (after caffeine) is the most common compound in mate. This substance helps protect your body against harmful free radicals and reduces oxidative stress, which is associated with aging and various chronic diseases.

Boosts bone density

Recent research indicates that mate may positively affect bone health. Daily consumption has been linked to higher bone mineral density, especially in postmenopausal women.

Additionally, compounds like rutin, chlorogenic acid, and small amounts of caffeine stimulate bone cell activity and the formation of new bone tissue. The antioxidants in mate also help reduce oxidative stress, a major contributor to bone loss.

Supports healthy digestion and helps with weight loss

Mate can naturally aid in maintaining a healthy weight. Research shows it stimulates fat burning, can reduce fat storage, and increases energy expenditure. 
Moreover, mate affects the activity of genes involved in fat storage and obesity, working on multiple mechanisms that contribute to being overweight.

Protects the heart health by lowering bad cholesterol

Mate may also have positive effects on the cardiovascular system. It supports better blood flow in small blood vessels and helps lower LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol), which may lead to reduced blood pressure. It also supports better blood sugar balance and insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for heart and blood vessel health.

Some studies even suggest a link between regular mate consumption and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, especially in postmenopausal women.

Improves the gut health

Many of mate's health benefits start in the gut. The phenolic compounds in mate reach the large intestine, where they act as prebiotics: feeding beneficial bacteria and supporting a healthy gut flora. This has positive effects on the immune system, metabolism, and overall vitality.

Fact-checking

The information on this page is based on scientific research and intended for informational purposes. Always consult a doctor or specialist in case of health complaints. Also always fact-check the information yourself. Feel free to ask us clarifying questions or go ahead check our sources below.