Yerba mate is a tea made from the leaves and twigs of the ilex paraguariensis plant. It is a staple beverage in South America, and can easily be ordered online or purchased at health food stores. Though Yerba mate is best known for relieving fatigue, promoting weight loss, boosting immune function, easing depression and alleviating headache, it also has some lesser known uses. Yerba mate also has been known to "help with allergies, diabetes, hay fever, and hypertension."
Weight Loss
According to the Mayo Clinic, yerba mate reportedly has been found to promote weight loss. One possible reason is that yerba mate is often consumed plain, without the added calories of sugar or creamer. Also, the active ingredients in yerba mate include caffeine, a stimulant and diuretic, polyphenols, and saponins, anti-cancer causing agents. Yerba mate also contains antioxidants (vitamins C and E), as well as riboflavin, thiamin, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium. It is likely that the stimulant and diuretic effects of the caffeine work together to promote weight loss.
Fatigue and Depression Relief
The caffeine in yerba mate tea is helpful in fighting fatigue and depression. Caffeine, in moderation, has been found to be very effective in boosting overall energy, as well as, mood. Yerba mate also contains polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that destroy damaging free-radical cells, enhance immune system function, and promote health and wellness. The iron, magnesium and calcium in yerba mate may also be responsible for the lift that comes with this beneficial herbal tea.
Cancer Prevention
Test-tube studies suggest that mate may fight cancer cells, although additional research is needed. According to expert nutritionist, Sue Roberts, yerba mate contains cancer-causing compounds called tannins and N-nitrosamines. Clearly, more scientific research is needed in this area, though it is reported that long-term use may cause cancer of the mouth, larynx, liver, kidneys and bladder.
Airways Opened for Easier Breathing
Yerba mate is a stimulant, and it promotes a relaxed, refreshed feeling, and an elevated mood. According to nutritionist Sue Roberts, Yerba mate contains caffeine, theobromine and the broncho-dilator theophylline. The National Institutes of Health reports that theophylline opens the airways for easier breathing. The strength of yerba mate is determined by how long the tea is allowed to steep, and the tea strength can be monitored by the color or darkness of the tea. The darker the tea, the more caffeine it contains, and the more stimulant provided by the tea. In terms of caffeine, one cup of yerba mate is the equivalent of one half cup coffee.
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