Yerba Mate Directions

Yerba mate is a popular herbal drink originating from Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina. According to Portugese legend, yerba mate has spiritual qualitities and medicinal qualities, and it was given to humans by a goddess. By preparing yerba mate in the traditional method as it is made in South America, you can enjoy the authentic flavor and health benefits at home.

Things You'll Need

• Gourd
• Bambina
• Yerba mate herb

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Instructions

• 1

  Purchase a gourd intended for drinking yerba mate or prepare a new gourd before drinking. To prepare a new gourd, the inside must be cured to ensure it lasts a long time. Use a small spoon to scoop out the inner flesh. Add hot water and allow for the gourd to sit for 24 hours. Empty the gourd and scrape away the wet gourd flesh. Place the gourd in the sun until completely dried. If this process of emptying and drying is not completed succesfully, the gourds may develop mold.

• 2

  Purchase yerba mate from a health food shop or specialty tea shop. Yerba mate, or ilex paraguariensis, is a dried herbal tea that comes either in tea bags or loose and also may come sweetened or unsweetened. Often other herbs are added to yerba mate for extra flavor or medicinal value.

• 3

  Fill the gourd two-thirds full with the dried yerba tea. Arrange the yerba inside the gourd so that the smallest and finest particles of dried herb are far away from the straw. This ensures smaller particles do not clog the straw or bombina for drinking. Covering the opening of the gourd with one hand, turn it upside down and shake the contents vigorously.

• 4

  Stop shaking the gourd and its contents very slowly. You want the smallest plant particles to be arranged on one side of the gourd, with the larger plant materials on the other. Carefully turn the gourd on its side while shaking it from side to side, with your hand still covering the opening firmly.

• 5

  Stand the gourd upright once again, being careful not to disturb the herb tea too much. The yerba is now ready for adding the water. Insert the bombina or straw into the gourd, resting it on the side opposite the herb powder.

• 6

  Add the hot water, pouring it in against the side of the gourd until completely full. You can keep adding hot water untill the yerba begins to lose its flavor. Yerba mate is a social drink, so share it with friends and family.