Is Yerba Mate Similar to Tea? Unpacking the Differences and Similarities
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5 min read
Native to South America, yerba mate comes from the *Ilex paraguariensis* plant, which is different from the *Camellia sinensis* plant used for traditional teas. While both are caffeinated infusions, the similarities between them are surprisingly few, extending mostly to the brewing method, while their origins, cultural traditions, and flavor profiles diverge significantly.