This national beverage with caffeine originally comes from Paraguay, southern Brazil and Argentina.  The 'tea' comes from the green leaves of a type of holly.  In South America, Mate is also called 'Beverage of the Gods.' Drinking Mate out of one cup was a ritual and sometimes had the function of a peace pipe with the natives.  Mostly enjoyed outside at the campfire, it became the national drink in almost every country in the continent over the years.  The infusion becomes stronger the longer it is brewed.

4-5 heaped tsp/litre

water 100c 5-10 minutes