Yerba Mate

[Paul_B]

Does anyone drink Yerba Mate? What does it taste like and is there a natural, UK equivalent? I mean a local plant that can be used instead?

[John Fenna]

Tried it (got my own gourd and silver straw and all)...... nearly redecorated the livingroom with the part digested contents of my stomach.
It is a foul brew that reminds me of nothing more than silage liquer - which is widely available in Britain!
The remains of the packet went in the compost bin!

[Toddy]

I like it and it improves..........you're supposed to keep topping up the gourd and use it all day

It tastes green, but it you drink too much too quickly you'll get a buzz of white headedness.......like too much caffeine

UK equivalent ? Thing is that so many of the plants that could be used like this are 'contra indicated' nowadays.
Sandsnakes or Listenclear might know better than I do. Personally I find a mix of berry leaves, a bit of sage, some catnip and some meadowsweet works fine.

Interesting to hear what others might use

cheers,
Toddy