The Health Benefits of Yerba Mate
Health Benefits
There are many health benefits associated with Yerba Mate, gained from its nutritional and chemical compounds. Research suggests that the special way in which Yerba Mate is consumed makes it uniquely beneficial to the human body (Bixby, 2005).
- a good detoxifier
- produces deeper sleep
- boosts the immune system
- relieves allergies
- increases energy
- possibly reduces the risk of diabetes and hypoglycemia
- relaxes muscles
- burns more calories
- increases mental focus
- improves mood
- possibly increases the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the heart during exercise
- decreases hunger cravings
- possible prevention of some cancers
- possible reduction of heart attack and stroke
Some of these benefits derive from Yerba Mate's similarity to Green Tea. Of the 196 volatile chemical compounds found in Yerba Mate, 144 are also found in green tea. Its processing method, like that of green tea, preserves similar antioxidants and nutritive values. The Journal of Alternative Complement Medicine summarizes, "Yerba mate is thus a rich source of polyphenols and has antioxidant properties comparable to those of green tea" (2003). As it turns out, Yerba Mate taken in the Traditional Method is "more effective than either green tea or red wines" at "producing the highest concentration of polyphenols" in the blood (Bixby, 2005).
Other benefits derive from Yerba Mate's unique compounds. The Journal of Ethnopharmacology identifies many of Yerba Mate's helpful nutrients; "Vitamins B-1, B-2, A, riboflavin, carotene, colin, pantothenic acid, inositol and 15 types of aminoacids." (F. Alikaridis 1987). Sanz and Isasa found that, "Significant quantities of potassium, sodium and magnesium are present in the leaves as well as the infusion." (Arch Latinoam Nutr,1991, Vol 41, No 3, Sep, 1991, pp. 441-454). All of these nutrients are important to healthy body function.
Nutrients: The Journal of Ethnopharmacology identifies many of Yerba Mate's helpful nutrients; "Vitamins B-1, B-2, A, riboflavin, carotene, colin, pantothenic acid, inositol and 15 types of aminoacids." (F. Alikaridis 1987). Sanz and Isasa found that, "Significant quantities of potassium, sodium and magnesium are present in the leaves as well as the infusion." (Arch Latinoam Nutr,1991, Vol 41, No 3, Sep, 1991, pp. 441-454). All of these nutrients are important to healthy body function.
Stimulant, Study Aid, and Alzheimers Prevention
Other Chemical Compounds:
Of the 196 volatile chemical compounds found in yerba Mate, 144 are also found in green tea. Yerba Mate is loaded with valuable compounds.
Some compounds of interest.
2-butoxyethanol
linalool
geranylacetone
octanoic acid
hexanoic acid
l-penten-3-ol
œ-terpineol
nonanoic acid
geraniol
6-methyl-(E)-3,5-heptadien-2-one
6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one
2,6,6-trimethyl-2-hydroxycyclohexanone
œ-ionone
octanol
5,6-epoxy-ß-ionone
ß-ionone
6,10,14-trimethylpentadecanone
heptanol
(E)-2,(E)-4-heptadienal
hexanal
(E)-2-pentenol
(E)-2-hexena
Yerba Mate more beneficial than Green Tea
Of the 196 volatile chemical compounds found in Yerba Mate, 144 are also found in green tea. Its processing method, like that of green tea, preserves similar antioxidants and nutritive values. The Journal of Alternative Complement Medicine summarizes, "Yerba mate is thus a rich source of polyphenols and has antioxidant properties comparable to those of green tea" (2003). As it turns out, Yerba Mate taken in the Traditional Method is " more effective than either green tea or red wines" at "producing the highest concentration of polyphenols" in the blood (Bixby, 2005).
Benefit Disclaimer
Please keep in mind that each persons body is unique and stimulants should be taken seriously. Please use our information as a springboard for research into your specific needs. Of course, it is recommended to discuss any information with your doctor and listen to the specific needs of your body.