November 30 is celebrated as the National Day of Yerba Mate in Argentina. The date was sanctioned in the National Congress through law 27,117, on December 17, 2014, and was chosen in tribute to the birth of Andrés Guacurarí y Artigas, "in order to promote the permanent recognition of our customs." "Andresito" -as they called him-, son of José Gervasio Artigas, was governor of the large province of Misiones between 1815 and 1819. During his administration, he promoted the production the commercialization of the yerba mate.

Around 260 million tons of yerba mate are produced per year In Argentina. Around 75% of that total volume is traditional yerba mate, 20% is flavored; and the remaining 5% are derived products. According to the National Yerba Institute, each Argentine consumes around 110 liters of yerba mate every year.

Although mate is not only characterized as one of the most consumed national drinks, but also for having several healthy properties. Among some of them: it is an antioxidant, due to its high concentration of polyphenols; contains vitamins of group B, essential for bodily functions; Potassium and magnesium are other of its mineral components, which help the heart to function properly and incorporate proteins, respectively. It also stands out for its energizing effect and because it helps lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides.