Artisan Quality Pure Leaf Teas Fresh 100% Organic USDA Organic Brews 60 Cups Certified Organic by QAIOrigin, BrazilNamed for the Rio Iguacu (Iguazu River) which flows through the magnificent valley where this Mate is grown. The forests of the Iguacu Valley are ideal both in climate and soil for the best Yerba Mate. It is home to an amazing array of flora and fauna as well as the breathtaking Iguacu Falls (Iguacu means "big water").The PlantYerba Mate is native to the region around the rivers Parana, Paraguay, Uruguay and their tributaries. The herb was first used by the Guarani, the indigenous tribal peoples who introduced the beverage to early explorers and settlers.An Ancient BeverageIn Guarani folklore the god Tupa was responsible for teaching the tribes to harvest and prepare Mate. The Guarani prepare the beverage in a gourd (in Portuguese a "cuia" or in Spanish a "mate") and sip through a filtered straw (a "bomba" or "bombilla"). To this day, Mate is still frequently consumed in this traditional manner.Flavor ProfileAn aged Mate with a classic, mellow, herbaceous aroma and smooth flavor. Will provide at least 3-4 infusions.Gourd & BombillaThe Mate Gourd and Bombilla are traditional vessels used for enjoying Yerba Mate. The Gourd is filled one-third full with the leaves and after adding water, the brew is enjoyed by sipping through the bombilla. Designs and shapes vary by the region.Yerba and HealthSimilar to tea and dark chocolate, Yerba Mate contains the xanthines theobromine and caffeine used by many to help with mental alertness, focus and wakefulness. The herb is also rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals and has been used in Guarani remedies for centuries. Traditionally it has been used as a diuretic, a digestive aid, and to ease asthmatic symptoms. Recent studies have shown Yerba Mate to contain a significant amount of antioxidants.