Yerba Mate

ILEX PARAGUARIENSIS (YERBA MATE) The Social Stimulant—An Herb of Energy, Mental Clarity, and Cultural Ritual BOTANICAL IDENTIFICATION Scientific Name: Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil.Common Names: Yerba Mate, Paraguayan Tea, Jesuit Tea, Erva MateFamily: Aquifoliaceae Ilex paraguariensis is a subtropical evergreen tree reaching 6 to 15 meters in height, with leathery, serrated, dark green leaves (7–11 centimeters long) and small, white unisexual flowers. The plant produces red drupe fruits in autumn. Native to the Atlantic Forest regions of Paraguay, southern Brazil, Uruguay, and northern Argentina. Prefers humid, subtropical forests with well-drained, acidic soils. Adaptations include tolerance of partial shade, deep root systems for water uptake, and evergreen leaves adapted to fluctuating rainfall. CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL USE Yerba mate has been used for centuries by the Guaraní people as a tonic and social beverage, consumed from hollowed gourds (mate) with a metal straw (bombilla