Mate accessories – such as bombillas, canvas filter bags, mate drinking vessels and gourds – all play an important role in traditional mate drinking, and each tool has a well-defined function that contributes to the enjoyment and experience of mate.

About mate tea

Mate tea is the national drink of the people of South America, which is increasingly conquering the rest of the world. Yerba mate is 100% natural, it does not undergo any chemical treatment during its preparation. Due to its high caffeine content, it has a great energizing effect, but unlike coffee, it does not make you alert suddenly, but gradually, so it is a more popular alternative for many. Its consumption helps concentration and can also increase physical endurance.

What are the benefits of drinking mate tea?

Due to its high caffeine content, it has a great energizing effect, but unlike coffee, it does not make you alert suddenly, but gradually, so it is a more popular alternative for many. Its consumption helps concentration and can also increase physical endurance.

Drinking mate tea

The best-known method of drinking mate tea is based on tradition and requires nothing more than the so-called bombilla straw and mate gourd + hot (not boiling) water, cold water and yerba mate tea.

Bombilla

A bombilla is a metal straw specifically designed for drinking yerba mate. Its special design prevents the drinker from drinking the yerba mate leaves and stems, and from burning themselves with hot water while drinking. The bombilla has three main components: the spout/mouthpiece, the neck, and the filter. This is the main difference compared to a traditional metal straw – it is not just a metal cylinder.

Canvas filter bag

A simple but effective tool specifically for drinking mate tea. It can be attached to the bombilla, providing better filtration. It can be used repeatedly, and is best used for mate tea that is particularly fine-grained, "dusty". These bags help to prevent the leaves from scattering while the mate is being brewed or steeped.

Mate drinking vessels (Gourds)

Mate is traditionally drunk from a special vessel called a "gourd", which is most often made of pumpkin, but can also be made of metal, glass, wood, ceramic, and other materials. It is simple and ideal for everyday use. Since it is a natural product, there may be minor or major variations in size and color. During use, the mate gourd may become discolored. This is a natural process that results from the absorption of yerba mate tea and does not affect the use value of the mate gourd. It is recommended to clean the mate gourd after each use and dry it with the open side up. A common mistake is to dry the mate gourd with the open side down, which will keep it moist longer and may shorten its lifespan.

The gourd is an essential part of drinking mate, as this is where it is consumed according to cultural customs. The shape and material allow the leaves and water to mix properly, allowing the flavors to become richer. The material of the gourd helps maintain optimal temperature and heat dissipation, so the drink will not be too hot. Gourds are porous by nature, which means that they slowly absorb the flavor of the mate, and because of this, they can also acquire a special "spicy" taste after a while. These types of gourds, if treated well, provide an even richer flavor experience.

Modern mate drinking vessels (metal, glass, ceramic)

In addition to traditional gourds, modern mate drinking vessels are now also available, made of metal, glass or ceramic. These vessels are often practical, easy to clean and require less maintenance.

Metal drinking vessels are very durable and do not affect the taste of the mate. They are especially suitable for those who want an easy-to-clean and long-lasting device. Glass drinking vessels allow you to see the color of the drink and easily check that the mate is still fresh. Glass does not add any extra flavor to the drink, so it provides the purest experience. Ceramic drinking vessels are often handmade and provide a unique look. Due to the insulating properties of the material, they are able to maintain the temperature of the drink for a longer period of time.

Why are these tools important?

Traditional mate drinking is not only about the right tools, but also about the rhythm and the communal experience. Tools – such as the bombilla, gourd, and filter bags – all contribute to making the drinking experience comfortable and authentic, while helping to effectively filter the leaves and enjoy the flavors. Between traditional and modern versions, the choice of tools depends on what kind of experience you are looking for: a traditional, rich cultural experience, or a more practical, modern solution.