cuia

Cuia refers to a type of gourd or calabash, specifically the dried shell of a fruit from plants in the family Bignoniaceae or Cucurbitaceae. These shells are commonly used for various purposes, most notably as containers. In many South American countries, particularly Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, dried cuia shells are traditionally used to prepare and serve mate, a caffeinated infusion. The beverage is brewed directly within the hollowed-out shell, and consumed through a metal straw called a bombilla.

Beyond their use in mate preparation, cuia shells have a long history of being fashioned into bowls, utensils, and decorative items. Their natural shape and durable material make them versatile for practical applications. The term "cuia" can also refer to the finished product, such as a mate gourd made from the shell. The cultivation and harvesting of these gourds are often tied to traditional practices and local economies in regions where they are indigenous or widely cultivated. The natural variations in size and shape of the cuia contribute to their unique character.