Yerba Mate (pronounced ma-teh) is a green tea made from the Ilex paraguariensis from the holly genus, an infusion from South America that is traditionally drunk with a cup called a gourd and a metal straw called bombilla. The tea is very distinct with a strong natural herbal taste. It has a potent yet soothing kick that will keep you awake and alert and will help you stay focused when you would normally be tired and worn out. It does this without all the caffeine of coffee. If drank properly it is a great dietary supplement, suppressing the appetite while providing you with all the nutrients needed to sustain life, including 24 vitamins and minerals and 15 amino acids. In addition, this South American yerba tea has many other herbal health benefits! It also holds a very symbolic ritualistic tradition around the gathering of close friends, family, and community in that only one gourd - mate is used to serve several people and is usually passed around.