Mate – the Infusion
by Maria Mila, L&M Naples MultiServices Consulting Agency www.NaplesMultiservices.com
In the month of Hispanic Heritage, I want to share with you this informative note about something that identifies (us) the Uruguayans…. the mate. This infusion, which in addition to being a reason for conversation outside the borders of my country, is an inseparable companion of the majority of Uruguayans.
What are its contents? Mate is a stimulating drink obtained from the infusion of the dehydrated and ground leaves of Illex Paraguariensis (Yerba Mate) and is a typical and traditional element of Uruguayan popular culture. According to historians, the origin of this drink dates from pre-Hispanic times and would come from the Guaraní culture who used the leaves of this tree for consumption and barter. Mate is a deformation of the Quichua word “mati” which they used to call the Lagenaria, a gourd used as a container to prepare said infusion. This Creole tradition is started by the country man who takes the mate amargo (bitter), alone or surrounded by his peers around the fire. Over the years, mate gains space in the city and today drinking mate (and its variations) is a common practice in Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay and in southern Brazil.
Depending on the place, the moment, or with whom it is taken, mate acquires different meanings. It can be a food, a faithful companion in those slow hours, a companion of students, a regular in groups of friends, present at family picnics, or during the break with co-workers. Mate is an element that unites (- Let’s have some mates) and also a welcome method -You arrived just right; mate is “hot” is a warm gesture that Uruguayans have to welcome those who arrive.
The mate is drank generally in a shared way, using the same container, the same straw-like utensil and it is passed from one person to another, which is a distinctive fact in terms of how other infusions (such as coffee or tea) are shared. If you got here and you are smiling, it is because you have seen a Uruguayan with the “thermos and mate” who regardless of the time of year are his inseparable companions. If like me, you are Uruguayan surely it brought you memories of memorable moments, because mate for us is family, culture and friendship!
-Maria Mila
About María: She is a native of Canelones, Uruguay, she is a mother, an administrative professional and a Lifecoach culminating her training as a Neurocoach. Her nearly 20 years of experience in personnel management, financial services, and human resources make her an expert in startup development and training. His passion for serving others is being used in his ongoing campaign to support family members and caregivers of people on the autism spectrum, with mental health problems or other related disorders. This mother of two is a natural motivator and believes that a smile and a positive attitude can change the world.
Her favorite quote is: “Our greatest weakness lies in resigning. The surest way to be successful is to always try one more time. “
-Thomas A. Edison
