The History and Origins of Yerba Mate

In this article, we'll learn about the early history of yerba mate.

Where is Mate From?

Mate is a beverage made with water and processed yerba mate leaves. Yerba mate is a species of Illex with the botanical name Ilex paraguariensis. It grows in the north of Argentina, Paraguay, and south of Brazil.

According to the 19th Century explorer Joseph Hooker, yerba mate was consumed in South America long before the Spanish and Portuguese conquerors arrived. And in fact, it has been determined that Ilex plants, including Ilex paraguariensis, were used by different groups of people around the continent.

On his book 'El mate', Javier Ricca explains in great detail every who used yerba and to what purpose. We will include a brief summary of said research to give an idea of the expansion of yerba mate use.

Creek people

The Creek people lived close to the Appalachian Mountains (east of the US), where the Ilex dahoon grows. This plant was used to prepare a beverage known for its black color and its bitter taste.

In 1562, the explorers René de Laudonnière and Gaspard II de Coligny described how the drink had a crucial role in rituals. They would consume the beverage in the course of three days, which caused hallucinations and vomit. This experience was believed to be magical and help to purify the body.

Jibaro

The Jibaro people, as well as other small tribes that lived in what is currently Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela fermented the yerba. Specifically, the variety Ilex guayusa, making a drink that had narcotic properties. It was mainly used to enhance the physical performance of dogs used to hunt and fight in wars.

Quechua people

Quechua people is an umbrella-term that comprises many groups and civilizations, including Chanka, Huaca, and Incas among others.

At the time conquerors arrived in South America, the Quechua people lived in what it is currently Peru and Bolivia. It is known that like many other civilizations, the Quechua people considered death and afterlife as important steps in their life. They designing and decorating their tombs with special care.

At the site of Ancon (near Lima, Peru), archaeologist found yerba mate leaves among some of the dead's personal belongings. The tomb was over 1000 years old. This is one of the few dated proofs of yerba mate consumption in South America before the Spanish conquest.

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