Yerba Maté is native to the subtropical highlands of Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina and Brazil. It is an evergreen (Ilex paraguariensis) and is harvested in the wild as well as on cultivated Maté plantations.

Yerba Maté was introduced to the rest of the world by the Guarani Tribe of Paraguay and Uruguay. Yerba Maté is brewed from the dried leaves and young stems of this perennial tree or bush. Yerba Maté is consumed widely in many South American countries and is a healthful alternative to coffee. This stimulating herbal beverage has the ability to energize without the nervousness and jittery edge associated with coffee. Yerba Maté is a healthy drink which not only wakes you up but delivers natural anti-oxidant polyphenols, immune system supporting saponins and a wide spectrum of healthy vitamins and minerals.

Unlike Rishi’s other botanical blends, Yerba Maté contains a substance similar to caffeine which is known as “Matteine.” It is responsible for Yerba Maté’s uplifting energy and should not be consumed by those who avoid caffeine.

Organic Yerba Maté is a renewable rain forest product and is part of a socially and environmentally conscious movement by our organic industry to promote non-timber forestry products. Rishi’s Organic Yerba Maté assists in the conservation of the precious rainforest through the production and promotion of sustainable, shade grown products that Amazon tribes rely upon as a viable alternative income source to destructive logging, soya farming and cattle ranching.