The best South American teas

The infusions are very varied and are always the characteristic of a region or country. But they are usually globalized and are part of the daily life of many people. As this happens, the product changes depending on the place where we take it. In some parts it is more bitter, in others sweeter, more liquid. It depends, like everything in life.

As for teas, it’s like mate, we grew up drinking it or watching someone else drink it. Even in some countries of the United Kingdom there is tea time and here in these latitudes there are specific places to have tea.

We are going to leave you a guide of which are the best that exist in South America and another of which are the most outstanding in the world.

1- Organic black tea from Bolivia

It is one of the most reputable teas in all of South America. In the Bolivian heights you can also get good tea and proof of this is a black tea, which is made completely handmade and organic. It has a unique aroma and a very deep, characteristic flavor.

2- Premium Missions

It is a region known for the production of yerba mate, but it also stands out in terms of the infusion of tea. One of the best black teas in the country is made there, with a certain proximity to those of Asia.

In addition, red and green tea is made in this province, although with a slightly lower quality than the mentioned above.

3- The mate of the southern cone

And of course, how not to talk about mate. It is an extremely stimulating drink (linkear a cómo se toma el mate), highly digestive and which provides properties at a general level for the human body.

Although it is strong and disgusting at first, it can be taken in various ways that you just have to go ahead and try. It is characteristic of Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay.

4- The coca tea

In the Andean region between northern Chile, Argentina and also in Bolivia and Peru, it is very common to drink an infusion of coca leaves. It is stimulating and helps combat the effects of altitude. It is taken by everyone in the mentioned regions, especially when it is time to ascend the Andes Mountains.

5- The Ecuadorian guayusa

It is from the same family as yerba mate, and has stimulating capabilities when consumed. For this reason, it is often used as an energy drink. It serves, like mate, as a replacement for coffee.

The three best in the world

Don’t miss out on knowing what the best teas are like in Japan, China or India. These three countries are the ones that produce the best quality product and usually export them all over the world. (Linkear a catálogo de mates)

1- Japan: green tea

In this country, green tea is usually drunk constantly during the day, as if it were a mate to us. Green tea is not highly fermented, but its production is rapid and its taste is smooth, like chamomile tea.

In recent times, the Japanese market has been able to diversify and bring out new varieties, while maintaining its unique and well known flavour.

2- China, the one with the great production

It is one of the countries, by no surprise,  that is characterized by having a massive production of tea. This production goes both for internal consumption and to exports (even to a higher degree). Due to the wide range of flavors found here, those who travel to the Asian country usually take advantage of it and try all kinds of teas. 

3- India, synonymous with black tea

The tea industry origins in India grew based on the production of black tea in two versions: assam or darjeeling. These are the most classic types and are native from the region. They are characterized by having a strong flavor (opposite to green tea varieties). 

However, due to the influence of China in the market, an uncountable number of more varieties can be found today. 

In these three countries you can find the true flavor of tea, which has permeated societies and reached our latitudes, despite the fact that the workhorse here is mate.

The best yuyos to add to mate

Adding yuyos to the mate has become a trend nowadays, especially for those who are lovers of the classic infusion.

Although in many cases, people just do it as something to add a special flavor to the drink, some of these plants actually have properties that are outstandingly beneficial for health. (Linkear a nota de mates saludables).

However, in many cases it is difficult to find the yerba mate which best matches what you want to add, that is why it is key to make sure that the combination its tasty… or just try it and find out! 

The most popular ones

1- Pennyroyal

It is a type of yuyo that acts effectively in cardiovascular problems and gastrointestinal disorders. As for the taste, it is strong and bitter. (Linkear a nota de mates dulce).

2- Mint

As the above, they also deal with gastrointestinal disorders and have digestive properties. In terms of taste, it is strong, but very fresh.

3- Peperine

It is a plant that is usually used in Córdoba. It is digestive and acts as a pain reliever for some general ailments of the body, such as headaches or contractures. It feels fresh, which makes it quite similar to mint.

4- Cedron

It is one of the most classic in Uruguay and the whole region. According to specialists, It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and sedative properties. Some often use it when drinking mate after a meal, especially when eaten in abundance.

There are others who prefer its benefits as a natural relaxant and take it to fall asleep more easily. Its has a sweetish taste.

5- Marcela

It is mainly dedicated to combat colic, indigestion, heartburn and other stomach problems. Its flavor is strong, but not that fresh. It is ideal for those who are looking for a well-defined style when preparing mate. (Linkear a catálogo de mates).

6- Sage

It is digestive and has anti-inflammatory characteristics. Like Marcela, it has a strong and powerful taste that diferentiates it.

7- Burritos

Although it is not quite popular in Uruguay, some have begun to use it in their bitter tea after trying the tereré. Its flavor is very similar to that of mint and in Paraguay it is used in summer for its refreshing properties.