Steaming cup of deep red Chai tea on a white coaster, with loose leaf tea and branded pouch displayed on a light surface, by Yerba Buena Tea Company.

The Tea Journal

Deepen your connection to the leaf. Explore expert guides on organic ingredients, the science of steeping, and the stories behind our Oregon-blended teas. Your resource for sipping with intention.

A glass mug of brewed organic yerba mate beside a Yerba Buena Tea Co. Clean Energy tin

Yerba Mate vs Yerba Madre: What Changed (And What Didn't)

Guayaki rebranded to Yerba Madre in May 2025. Here is what changed, what stayed the same, and how organic loose-leaf yerba mate fits in.

Iced tea with lemon slices in a tall glass surrounded by fresh citrus on a bright white surface, from Yerba Buena Tea Company.

How to Make Iced Tea with Loose Leaf Tea (The Fast Way + Cold Brew)

Make smooth iced tea from organic loose leaf two ways: the fast hot-brew-and-chill method for same-day tea, plus overnight cold brew. Ratios, times, and tips.

Flatlay of Yerba Buena Tea Co. organic yerba mate tins (Slim Mint, Clean Energy, Chocolate Mint Mate) with fresh mint leaves and a glass of brewed tea.

Yerba Buena vs. Yerba Mate: What is the Difference?

"Wait, are you a Yerba Mate company?" We get asked this question daily. While the names sound similar, Yerba Buena ("The Good Herb") and Yerba Mate are two very different plants. Here is the definitive guide to the difference, and the story behind our name.
Why Your Green Tea Tastes Bitter (And How to Fix It)

Why Your Green Tea Tastes Bitter (And How to Fix It)

Does your green tea taste like bitter medicine? You aren't alone. Discover the one simple mistake almost everyone makes when brewing green tea, and learn the Tea Sommelier's trick for a sweet, smooth cup every time.
Comparison of beverages showing coffee beans, loose leaf black tea, and organic yerba mate to illustrate caffeine levels.

Tea vs Coffee Caffeine: The Real Energy Chart

Trying to quit the coffee jitters? We break down the exact caffeine levels of Coffee vs. Yerba Mate vs. Tea to help you find the perfect fuel for your day.
Comparison of black tea leaves versus organic herbal tea ingredients like hibiscus and peppermint.

Tea vs. Tisane: What is the Difference? (And Why We Love Both)

Technically, "Herbal Tea" isn't tea at all, it's a Tisane. We explain why this botanical distinction matters for your caffeine levels and your brewing technique.
Gradient of organic tea leaves showing the difference between white, green, oolong, and black tea processing.

Types of Tea: How One Plant Becomes Five (Plus Herbal)

Green, black, white, oolong, pu-erh. Five teas, one plant. The difference is in the craft, specifically how long the leaf is allowed to oxidize before heat stops the process. Here is what that means for your cup.
Loose Leaf vs. Tea Bags: Why

Loose Leaf vs. Tea Bags: Why "Whole Leaf" Tastes Better

Is loose leaf really worth the effort? We break down the difference between the "dust" found in grocery store tea bags and the premium whole leaves we use in Oregon. Learn why switching to loose leaf is the biggest upgrade you can make for your health and palate.