Yerba mate is a unique herb often made into tea or used in skincare products. Yet, many don’t realize that it has a rich history and is included in cultural rituals. In this blog, we’ll dive into the traditions, history, and benefits of yerba mate to help you learn why it's such a powerful ingredient used in tea and skincare.
History and Origins of Yerba Mate
The indigenous Guarani people of South America discovered yerba mate and uncovered its stimulating properties after boiling the leaves of an Ilex paraguariensis plant—a species of yerba mate.
Tea made from the leaves of this plant gained popularity in the 17th century after Jesuit missionaries popularized its use. They established plantations and supplied yerba mate within Spanish and Portuguese colonies in South America.
Over the years, yerba mate has remained a popular beverage and has become a significant cultural staple in South America.
Read more: Power of Yerba Mate: Transform Your Skincare Routine
Cultural Significance of Yerba Mate
In South America, yerba mate has huge cultural significance. It symbolizes connecting the community and maintaining deep friendships.
In places like Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, yerba mate drinking rituals involve passing the drink amongst a group of friends and family in a communal gourd to foster social cohesion and hospitality. In these countries, those who consume yerba mate tea daily also do so as a symbol of national identity.
Yerba Mate Tea Benefits
Yerba mate has been around for centuries, so it's not surprising that it's beneficial to one's health. Below is a list of the benefits that come with drinking yerba mate tea:
- Boosts energy levels: Enhances alertness and minimizes fatigue due to its caffeine content.
- High percentage of antioxidants: Proven to contain a high percentage of polyphenols and saponins, which can fight off oxidative stress.
- Improves digestion: Aids in improved digestion and helps stimulate bile production.
- Aids with weight loss: Proven to reduce appetite and increase metabolisms.
- Improves focus: Helps with concentration as it contains theobromine and theophylline, each of which is for better concentration.
- Improves cardio health: Proven to lower cholesterol and improve overall heart health.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: These properties help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Diuretic properties: Yerba mate can aid in flushing out excess fluids and toxins in the body.
Read more: Yerba Mate: The Best Eye Cream Skincare Ingredient for Mature Skin
How to Use Yerba Mate
Although yerba mate is primarily consumed through a specially made tea, it is also a popular skincare ingredient.
Here is how it can be made as a tea and how it is used in skincare to promote healthier complexions:
Drinking Yerba Mate Tea
Yerba mate tea can be made by steeping its tea bags or by placing the loose leaves in hot water using a bombilla or a traditional gourd. It can be consumed hot or made into a cold iced tea.
Using Yerba Mate in Skincare
Yerba mate is highly sought after in the skincare industry due to its many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is found in creams, face masks, and lotions, providing protection against environmental stressors while nourishing the skin.
Read more: Skin-Tightening Treatments: What You Need to Know
The Wrap-Up on the Rich Culture of Yerba Mate
Yerba mate in South America has deep ties to its society, culture, and history. Its health benefits and versatility are making waves in the health and skincare industries, and the plant itself is under continuous study because of all of its capabilities. It's worth considering starting to drink yerba mate tea or using yerba mate skincare products to experience some of the many benefits this ingredient boasts.
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