How to make your own yerba mate?

To brew traditional yerba mate, fill a gourd ⅔ full with loose leaves. Tilt to one side, insert a bombilla, add a splash of cool water, then pour hot (not boiling) water slowly and sip. Repeat with refills. For a beginner-friendly method, use a French press and steep for 5–7 minutes. Try sweeteners, citrus, or herbs for flavor twists.

Is yerba mate ok to drink daily?

Yes, many people drink yerba mate daily without issues. One to three servings per day is generally considered safe for most healthy adults. However, if you’re sensitive to caffeine or prone to insomnia or anxiety, start slow and observe how your body reacts.

What do you mix with yerba mate?

Yerba mate pairs beautifully with lemon, orange, mint, ginger, or hibiscus. You can also mix it with milk (for a latte), coconut cream (for keto recipes), or sweeteners like honey or agave. For cold infusions, berries and cucumber are great add-ins.

What’s the best way to drink yerba mate?

It depends on your taste and tools. Traditional gourds offer the authentic experience. A French press is convenient for beginners. Cold-brew is great for hydration and warm weather, while lattes and fruity iced mates suit modern palates.

When not to drink yerba mate?

Avoid yerba mate if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a history of caffeine sensitivity, heart issues, or anxiety. Don’t drink it at night if you’re sensitive to stimulants. Also, avoid consuming it extremely hot (above 149°F) to reduce cancer risk associated with very hot beverages.

Yerba Mate Guide: Amazing Benefits & 5 Proven Recipes

Ingredients

Scale

2/3 cup loose leaf yerba mate

Cool water (room temperature)

Hot water (130–160°F / 55–70°C)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Fill a gourd 2/3 full with yerba mate, forming a slight slope to one side.

2. Tilt the gourd so the yerba gathers on one side and a hollow space forms on the other.

3. Pour a little cool water into the hollow and let it absorb (about 30 seconds).

4. Insert the bombilla into the hollow—do not stir.

5. Slowly add hot water into the same spot. Sip and refill as needed. Leaves can be reused 10–20 times.

Notes

Do not use boiling water it burns the leaves and alters the flavor.

Never stir with the bombilla it causes clogging.

Use a thermometer if needed to keep water between 130–160°F.

Author: Lara
Prep Time: 2 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Category: Drinks
Method: Brewed
Cuisine: South American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 5
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg