Yerba Mate

The Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is an Asian tree or shrub which contributes to breakdown of fats and to weight control. The Yerba Mate is an evergreen or deciduous shrub or tree which occurs on all continents. It prefers more humid habitats and its distribution ranges from lowlands to mountains. It can be found at elevations of up to 4,000 m above sea level. Dried leaves are used to make tea. Indians of the Guarani ethnical group were the first to use the yerba mate. It was brought to Europe by the Spanish conquistadors later but a true Yerba Mate “boom” was seen only later – during the second half of the 20th century.