We’d like to introduce you to an age-old South American brew that is buzzing with healthy energy. If you are not yet acquainted, please meet Yerba Maté, a plant that is indigenous to the rainforests of Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil. This powerful beverage, yerba (herb) maté (cup), has been the secret weapon of South Americans for hundreds of years.

Of the six commonly used stimulants in the world, (among them: yerba maté, coffee, tea, kola nut, cocoa and guarana), yerba maté is the most balanced, delivering both energy and nutrition. The yerba maté plant naturally contains caffeine, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which provide an invigorating flow of energy and clarity of mind. Now, this is a plant you want to work into your daily routine! And you can get your fix at Smoothie King, by trying the new Berry Stimulating Maté smoothie, which combines blackberry, strawberry, blueberry, and Guayaki organic yerba maté. Or, try adding yerba maté to any of your favorite smoothies.

Yerba maté boasts a host of attributes:

• induces mental clarity
• sustains energy
• aids in weight control
• increases metabolism
• lessons the effects of allergies and diabetes
• aids in digestion

Trick or Treat

Yerba maté is traditionally consumed out of a hollow gourd (a member of the pumpkin family!) The dry yerba maté leaves are placed at the bottom of the cup, the cup is filled with warm water, and then the brew is sipped through a straw (called a bombilla). The cup is shared in a gesture of community and friendship. To find more information on these authentic treats, visit www.guayaki.com.

Guayaki

Guayaki is the first to bring you certified organic, fairly traded and rainforest-grown yerba maté. Guayakí works with farmers in South America to promote sustainable growing practices, to preserve and reforest the land, and to create a renewable income stream--effectively bettering the lives of the local communities. So consumers have the power to choose products that have a positive impact--we call this Market Driven Restoration. Enjoy the good deed and the good energy!