Bombillas

Bombilla for yerba mate is an essential accessory for every lover of the traditional South American infusion. It is a special filtering straw for mate tea, which separates the drink from the leaves. The most popular bombillas are made of stainless steel, alpaca, or bamboo. They come in various shapes and lengths, and their filters are adapted to different types of yerba mate – from coarsely cut leaves to finely ground yerba mate chimarrão. Although some people call bombilla a "yerba mate spoon", it is not used for stirring the infusion, but only for drinking it!

The history of the bombilla – how did the Guarani Indians drink yerba mate?

The properties of Ilex paraguariensis, the plant from which yerba mate is produced, were discovered by the Guarani Indians, who inhabited areas of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina in South America. Initially, they chewed raw yerba mate leaves – this gave them energy and improved concentration before hunting and long journeys. Later, they dried and crushed the leaves, pouring hot water over them. They filtered the infusion through their teeth. Eventually, the Indians began using yerba mate straws made of bamboo or reed, which had small perforations on one end. The prototype bombilla was called takuapý in the Guarani language. With European colonization, natural bamboo yerba mate straws were replaced with metal bombillas made of brass or alpaca. This improved their durability and filtering efficiency.

Today, there is a much greater selection of bombillas – models made of various materials and equipped with special filters can be found in specialist yerba mate shops, such as MateMundo.co.uk.

Bombilla – the yerba mate straw. What does it look like and what is it used for?

The word bombilla comes from Spanish. It is the diminutive form of the word bomba, which means “pump.” In Spanish, bombilla also has a second meaning – it means “light bulb.” A bombilla consists of three parts:

• Mouthpiece – the flattened part of the bombilla through which yerba mate reaches the mouth.
• Tube – a narrow, usually straight or slightly curved. Sometimes bombillas can be found with beautifully, richly decorated tubes. The filtered infusion flows through the tube and into the mouth.
• Filter with holes – its purpose is to prevent leaves from entering the drink.

Depending on the type of bombilla, the filters may have different shapes:

• A universal bombilla with a spoon-shaped filter – the most commonly found bombilla, equipped with a flat filter, shaped like a small spoon. Best suited for most yerba mate types.
• Bombilla "bomba" – has a wide, round filter with many small holes. Ideal for finely ground yerba mate like chimarrão.
• Bombilla with a spring filter – less precise, good for coarsely cut leaves with a small amount of dust.
• Bombilla with a cylindrical filter – features fine, perpendicular incisions at one end. Similar to spring bombillas, this type is well-suited to coarser yerba mate.

Some bombillas are unscrewable, making them much easier to clean. Other bombillas are equipped with a cooling ring placed on the tube, which reduces the temperature of the infusion while drinking.

A yerba mate bombilla is usually about 15-20 cm long. Some are shorter – suited for smaller gourds – and some are longer. It is important to match the length of the bombilla to your mate cup. It shouldn't be too short. On the other hand, an overly long and heavy bombilla may tip the mate goud and cause the drink to spill.

Types of yerba mate bombillas. What are they made of?

Bombillas, or "yerba mate straws", can be made from many different materials, which determine their appearance, durability, convenience, and, most importantly, price. Here are the most popular types of bombillas:

• Bamboo bombillas – bamboo is a plant with woody stems that resemble reeds or straws. Small holes are drilled in them to create a natural filter. A bamboo yerba mate straw has both advantages and disadvantages. It is natural, lightweight, and inexpensive. However, it is less durable and wears out quickly. Bamboo is an organic material that absorbs flavours and aromas from infusions. If left in liquid, it may rot due to moisture, and cracks may develop in high temperatures.
• Palo Santo wooden bombillas – Palo Santo, also known as "holy wood", has a distinctive aroma. Like bamboo bombillas, Palo Santo is an organic material, which can pose some inconveniences. However, the subtle, essential fragrance can enhance the taste of the infusion, creating a unique effect.
• Stainless steel bombillas – often labeled "inox", a term derived from the French word inoxydable, meaning "non-oxidizing." This is an iron-based alloy containing carbon, chromium, and nickel. Stainless steel does not rust – it is resistant to corrosion and high temperatures, making it safe for hot beverages. Stainless steel bombillas are durable, have a sleek and shiny appearance, and are relatively inexpensive.
• Alpaca bombillas – alpaca, also known as "new silver" or "Chinese silver", resembles silver but is actually an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc. Because of its resemblance to silver, an alpaca bombilla looks more elegant than a stainless steel one. It is also durable and corrosion-resistant. Alpaca bombillas are considered more exclusive than stainless steel, which is reflected in their higher price.
• Silver bombillas – elegant, beautifully decorated, and extremely durable. Silver has been used since ancient times in jewellery, cutlery, and tableware. It has antibacterial properties, making it one of the best but also most expensive options.

Yerba mate bombilla – which one should you choose?

Yerba mate is an essential part of every mate drinker's life. What should you choose? Which bombilla is best for beginners, and which for advanced users? You will find answers to these questions on our yerba mate shop's website.

The MateMundo.co.uk store offers a wide range of bombillas – from simple models for beginners to more exclusive, decorated bombillas. We offer:

• Affordable bombillas for beginners – stainless steel bombillas with spoon or spring filters.
• Professional bombillas for advanced users – models with superior filtration, decorated with colourful stones.
• A wide selection of lengths, shapes, and filters – suited to different types of yerba mate and mate cup sizes.

Looking for the best bombilla? Contact our customer service team – we will help you choose the perfect model!

Is a bombilla necessary for yerba mate?

Many people wonder how to start their yerba mate journey. This naturally energising drink is an increasingly popular alternative to coffee. What do you need to drink yerba mate? A bombilla and a mate cup are essential. But is a filtering straw really necessary? It is what separates the infusion from the leaves, allowing for comfortable drinking. Alternatively, a bombilla can be replaced with a tea infuser or a French press, but we recommend this only in emergency situations. Traditional yerba mate preparation enhances the experience, and mate tea sipped through a bombilla tastes best!

Where to buy a bombilla for yerba mate? Check out MateMundo.co.uk!

The yerba mate shop MateMundo.co.uk boasts a wide selection of bombillas. Beginners will surely appreciate stainless steel bombillas with spoon or spring filters. They are characterised by high-quality craftsmanship and an affordable price.

Why is it worth buying a bombilla from MateMundo.co.uk?

• Quality guarantee – products from renowned South American manufacturers.
• Expert assistance – not sure which bombilla to choose? Contact us!
• Fast shipping – your bombilla will reach you in no time.

MateMundo.co.uk guarantees great prices, professional service, and excellent product quality. Our bombillas ensure a comfortable yerba mate experience in all circumstances. Not sure what to choose? Want to know which bombilla is best for beginners? Interested in several products and struggling to decide? Don’t worry. If you have any doubts, our yerba mate online shop’s customer service team is at your disposal! Customer satisfaction is our mission. We will do everything possible to make your purchase a pleasure. Happy shopping at MateMundo.co.uk!