- Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is an herb prepared as a traditional drink common in South American countries. It can be served with or without sweetener, either hot or iced, and with fruit juice or milk.
- Yerba mate contains minerals, caffeine, antioxidants, and other nutrients that may offer health benefits. Traditionally, yerba mate has been used to help reduce mental and physical fatigue. More recently, yerba mate has been used to increase urination, treat headaches, and promote weight loss. However, scientific evidence is lacking. Some studies suggest that yerba mate may reduce blood sugar levels in people who have type 2 diabetes.
- Some studies suggest that drinking large amounts of yerba mate may increase the risk of some cancers, including oral, renal, and bladder. Also, the caffeine content of yerba mate may cause interactions with various prescription medications or herbal products.
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Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.
- Battagim J, Souza VT, Miyasaka NR, et al. Comparative study of the effect of green and roasted water extracts of mate (Ilex paraguariensis) on glucosyltransferase activity of Streptococcus mutans. J Enzyme Inhib.Med.Chem. 2012;27(2):232-240. View Abstract
- Berte KA, Beux MR, Spada PK, et al. Chemical composition and antioxidant activity of yerba-mate (Ilex paraguariensis A.St.-Hil., Aquifoliaceae) extract as obtained by spray drying. J Agric.Food Chem. 5-25-2011;59(10):5523-5527. View Abstract
- Binaghi MJ, Pellegrino NR, Valencia ME. [Mineral bioaccessibility in yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis St) infusions and mixtures with iron fortified milk]. Arch.Latinoam.Nutr. 2011;61(1):81-86. View Abstract
- Bracesco N, Sanchez AG, Contreras V, et al. Recent advances on Ilex paraguariensis research: minireview. J Ethnopharmacol. 7-14-2011;136(3):378-384. View Abstract
- Braganca VL, Melnikov P, Zanoni LZ. Trace elements in different brands of yerba mate tea. Biol.Trace Elem.Res 2011;144(1-3):1197-1204. View Abstract
- Burris KP, Davidson PM, Stewart CN, et al. Antimicrobial activity of Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) aqueous extracts against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus. J Food Sci. 2011;76(6):M456-M462. View Abstract
- Conforti AS, Gallo ME, Saravi FD. Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) consumption is associated with higher bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. Bone 2012;50(1):9-13. View Abstract
- de Souza LM, Dartora N, Scoparo CT, et al. Comprehensive analysis of mate (Ilex paraguariensis) compounds: development of chemical strategies for matesaponin analysis by mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr.A 10-14-2011;1218(41):7307-7315. View Abstract
- Festugato M. Pilot study on which foods should be avoided by patients with psoriasis. An.Bras.Dermatol 2011;86(6):1103-1108. View Abstract
- Klein GA, Stefanuto A, Boaventura BC, et al. Mate tea (Ilex paraguariensis) improves glycemic and lipid profiles of type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes individuals: a pilot study. J Am Coll.Nutr. 2011;30(5):320-332. View Abstract
- Lima IF, De Dea Lindner J, Soccol VT, et al. Development of an Innovative Nutraceutical Fermented Beverage from Herbal Mate (Ilex paraguariensis A.St.-Hil.) Extract. Int.J Mol.Sci. 2012;13(1):788-800. View Abstract
- Puangpraphant S, Berhow MA, Vermillion K, et al. Dicaffeoylquinic acids in Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis St. Hilaire) inhibit NF-kappaB nucleus translocation in macrophages and induce apoptosis by activating caspases-8 and -3 in human colon cancer cells. Mol.Nutr.Food Res 2011;55(10):1509-1522. View Abstract
- Rakocevic M and Martim SF. Time series in analysis of yerba-mate biennial growth modified by environment. Int.J Biometeorol. 2011;55(2):161-171. View Abstract
- Rivelli DP, Almeida RL, Ropke CD, et al. Hydrolysis influence on phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, plasma concentration, and tissue distribution of hydroethanolic Ilex paraguariensis extract components. J Agric.Food Chem. 8-24-2011;59(16):8901-8907. View Abstract
- Yatsu FK, Borghetti GS, Bassani VL. Technological characterization and stability of Ilex paraguariensis St. Hil. Aquifoliaceae (Mate) spray-dried powder. J Med.Food 2011;14(4):413-419. View Abstract
Disclaimer: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
