Yerba mate has lots of health benefits but Chinese may be drinking it wrong

May 26, 2026 - 16:18

The ancient South American brew known as yerba mate is gaining traction in China, praised for its potential to lower risks of Parkinson's disease and its popularity among elite footballers. But as the drink crosses cultures, experts warn that Chinese consumers may be adopting it in ways that strip away its traditional value.

Yerba mate, made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, has long been a staple in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Studies suggest it is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and compounds that may protect against neurodegenerative conditions. Top athletes, including Lionel Messi, have been seen sipping it from a gourd, fueling its global image as a health booster.

However, the drink is more than just a health tonic. In South America, sharing mate is a social ritual. A group passes a single gourd and metal straw, or bombilla, around a circle, building trust and conversation. Some Chinese fans, eager to replicate the health benefits, are drinking it alone from thermoses or adding sugar and milk, missing the communal spirit.

Traditionalists argue that the real value lies in the ceremony. "You don't just drink mate for the antioxidants," one Argentine mate enthusiast said. "You drink it to connect." As Chinese interest grows, the challenge may be to embrace not just the leaves, but the culture that makes them meaningful.