What is Terere? What does it mean for Paraguayans?

In Paraguay, tereré isn’t just a drink—it’s a way of life. While hot yerba mate is popular across South America, Paraguay created tereré as a refreshing, cold-brewed alternative that thrives in the country’s warm climate. Served over ice and often infused with herbs, tereré is hydrating, energizing, and deeply rooted in community.

At Teko Yerba Mate, we’re proud to carry on this tradition, bringing the crisp, revitalizing experience of tereré to people around the world—in a convenient, ready-to-drink form. Whether you’re cooling off after a workout or connecting with friends, tereré is the perfect balance of hydration, energy, and tradition.

Unlike hot yerba mate, which is steeped in warm water and enjoyed slowly, tereré is brewed with cold water and served over ice. It’s light, refreshing, and ideal for staying cool in Paraguay’s tropical heat.

Traditionally, it’s shared in social circles, passed from person to person in a ritual that’s just as much about connection as it is about hydration. It’s more than a drink—it’s a symbol of culture, conversation, and community.

Paraguayan tereré is a beautiful blend of ritual and refreshment. Here’s what makes the experience so special:

Tereré is usually enjoyed socially, with one person designated as the cebador (the server). The cebador prepares the drink and passes it around the circle. This symbolizes equality and unity—everyone shares from the same cup.

Traditionally served in a guampa (a cup made from wood, cattle horn, or metal) with a bombilla (metal straw), each setup is often personalized and beautifully decorated. It’s a ritual as much as a refreshment.

Paraguayans often enhance their tereré with remedios yuyo—herbs known for their health benefits. Common additions include:

• Menta (Mint): Cooling and refreshing

• Boldo: Supports liver health

• Cedrón (Lemon verbena): Calming and soothing

• Cocú (Lemongrass): Aids digestion and relaxation

These herbs not only flavor the drink, but add medicinal benefits, making tereré a traditional wellness tonic.

While often enjoyed during Paraguay’s hot afternoons or siesta time, tereré is now sipped throughout the day. Whether it’s a morning ritual or a mid-day reset, it provides hydration and natural energy.

Tereré is the go-to drink during barbecues, sports, outdoor work, or simply relaxing in the shade. It’s hydrating, cooling, and brings people together during warm weather and social gatherings.

There are unspoken rules to the tradition of tereré:

• The cebador drinks the first round to test the flavor.

• When someone is done, they return the guampa with a “thank you”—but only when they’re finished for good.(Though today, many say “thank you” after each round, blending old and new etiquette.)

At Teko, we’re proud to offer a modern way to enjoy tereré—in a convenient, ready-to-drink form that stays true to its roots. Whether you’re new to yerba mate or continuing a family tradition, Teko Yerba Mate brings the spirit of Paraguay into every bottle.

Refresh your body. Connect with others. Live the tradition.