Artisan Quality Pure Leaf Teas Fresh Aged Yerba Maté & Spices USDA Organic Certified Organic by QAI Origin, Blend With the current popularity of Chai, many variations have evolved. Maté Chai is a blend of aged, organic yerba Maté and organic spices - cloves, cinnamon and cardamon. History Maté was first used by the Guarani Indians, who believed it could cleanse and heal the spirit. Now, millions enjoy it in South America (especially in Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina). The Plant Maté is an evergreen plant of the holly family Ilex Paraguariensis. The plant can reach heights of 10-12 meters, but is generally pruned at about 4-6 meters. Although the plant does produce small flowers and fruit, only the distinct oval shaped leaves and stems are plucked for processing. Maté Constituents Maté contains vitamins (A, B1, B2, C and E), mineral salts, 15 amino acids and high level of antioxidants. Its chemical constituents also include alkaloids (caffeine). Maté is known to help cope with stress and is beneficial for the nervous and immune systems. Flavor Profile Cooling, spicy with bitter sweet flavor notes. Will provide at least 3-4 infusions. The Tao of Tea Like the Tao, the art of tea is universal. We began our work with tea in 1997 to be a connecting thread for tea culture. Practicing the art on a daily basis in our teahouses in Portland, Oregon, we are a group of tea enthusiasts from different backgrounds and cultures. We travel, learn, take delight and seek to offer pure leaf teas with great flavor, artistry and soul. Our reward comes through actions that help people's lives, sustain the art of tea and promise a healthy environment.The Tao of Tea