Mate (or Paraguayan tea) is the crushed leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis (or yerba mate plant) which is a shrub or small tree that is found in the general area of Paraguay. The yerba mate is processed and cut down to small pieces.
This is a drink that is consumed hot. It is usually drank during the winter or in the morning by Paraguayans. This drink provides energy because it is highly caffinated. It is prepared by putting the dry leaves of the yerba mate into the special cup called a guampa (in Brazil it is called cuia). The guampa can be made of wood, silver, or a hollow bull horn. There is a metal straw which is traditionally silver called a bombilla (or bomba in Portuguese. Boiling water is poured in the guampa and the water is sucked through the bombilla. The pieces of yerba are not sucked though because the bombilla has a filter on the end that goes into the guampa. This practice is not only very common in Paraguay, it is also common in Argentina, Uruguay and southern Brazil.
The water is stored in a thermus which can be decoreted and ornamental. The same thing goes for the guampa and bombilla. This is an industry that still thrives in Paraguay.
The health benefits of yerba mate are starting to be seen around the world because it is a healthier alternative to other drinks and it has antioxidents.
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Good article on mate and its preparation
goyerbamate.com
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