"On leaving the country, I missed mate exceedingly ..."
Alexander Caldleugh Travels in South America - 1820

Given the elaborate accoutrements that people carry with them so they can have mate within easy reach every minute of the day, I'm convinced the stuff is as addictive as nicotine.

Thermos bottles, gourd cups and bombillas (filter-straws) are sold and carried everywhere. At bus stations and toll plazas, there are vending machines to refill your thermos with hot water.