Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis, Aquifoliaceae) is an evergreen tree characteristic of the subtropical forests of South America. People have thought for a long time that the composition of Yerba Mate contains the caffeine-like substance "matein."
Today it is known that there is not such a substance and it's just pure caffeine, so the word matein is just one of its many synonyms. Yerba Mate has a proven energizing and calming effect on body and mind.
Besides caffeine, the composition of the Mate extract includes a whole cocktail of xanthines, which according to research, works differently on the body than tea, coffee and other sources of these molecules.
The tonic effect of Mate is similar to that of coffee, but its impact is concentrated more on the muscle tissue than on the central nervous system. After taking Mate, you can observe the toning of the heart and skeletal muscles and relaxation.
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What Is Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis, Aquifoliaceae) is an evergreen tree characteristic of the subtropical forests of South America. Its area of growth extends to the territories of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Traditionally the leaves and the soft twigs of Mate are used for tea-like drinks with moderate caffeine content, which the locals use as a toning agent for the body and mind, also for improving sluggish digestion.
What Do You Need to Know About the Active Ingredients of Yerba Mate
People have thought for a long time that the composition of Yerba Mate contains the caffeine-like substance "matein." Today it is known that there is not such a substance and it's just pure caffeine, so the word matein is just one of its many synonyms.
Depending on how much dry mixture is put into the tea of Yerba Mate, the latter usually contains slightly more caffeine than black tea and a little less than a cup of coffee.
Besides caffeine, the composition of the Mate extract includes a whole cocktail of xanthines, which according to research, works differently on the body than tea, coffee and other sources of these molecules.
The tonic effect of Mate is similar to that of coffee, but its impact is concentrated more on the muscle tissue than on the central nervous system. After taking Mate, you can observe the toning of the heart and skeletal muscles and relaxation of the smooth ones (incl. the smooth muscle fibers in the blood vessels).
In many places around the world, people consider the Yerba Mate tea as an equivalent alternative to green tea, and connoisseurs give it the same healthy properties. Indeed, the Mate extract contains antioxidant polyphenols similar to those in tea, but this by itself is not evidence of health effects.
Proven Benefits
- Proven energizing effect on body and mind. As a result of its content of caffeine.
- Accelerates the digestion. Due to the increased activity of the intestine and increased release of gastrointestinal fluids.
- It has a calming effect. Researchers show the possibilities of Yerba Mate extract to block the monoamine oxidase (MAO).
Assumptions, Poorly Researched Arguments and Scientific Forecasts
- Mate taken together with extracts of Guarana and Damiana during meals increases the feeling of fullness within hours. It has been found that people consuming such a beverage is safe with less food and feel full for a longer time. No one knows, however, which herb gives the essential effect.
- It has antioxidant potential: In theory, or in other words - on paper. So far no independent and proper scientific studies have demonstrated the real antioxidant effect of the Mate extracts on the body.
- It has cancer-protective potential: There are studies on lab animals and tissues, which give such a future to some of the xanthines in the composition of Yerba Mate, but up until now that's not enough for a scientifically correct conclusion. Some scientists think the opposite, making the extracts of Mate a "suspect" in connection with the spontaneous occurrence of specific cancers, typical of the esophagus, stomach, and mouth.
- Improves heart health: Research is at an early stage, and although people see a revolution in the way in which heart being cured, it is best to wait for real confirmation.
- Increased libido: No evidence of a similar effect. There are no tests.
Are There any Side Effects and Contraindications When Taking Yerba Mate
The extract from Yerba Mate is accepted as a safe product in the recommended for daily consumption dosages. However, the medical history keeps records about people that have harmed themselves, abusing with huge doses of the herb, including one death.
The intense and systemic administration of Yerba Mate (in large doses and for years) is indirectly associated with several types of cancers, including esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, kidney cancer, and lung cancer.
There is also direct evidence for the carcinogenic effect of Yerba Mate, obtained in studies with bacteria. Finally, because it contains caffeine, the extract from Yerba Mate is associated with all the side effects, typical of the over-use of caffeine (caffeinism).
It should not be taken by pregnant women, breastfeeding women, as well as in conjunction with antidepressants.
Dosage
Traditionally the used dose is of 3 to 10 g. dry herb per cup of Yerba Mate, and also two to three tea bowls for the day.
Upon taking of dry standardized extract as a nutritional supplement, it is best to follow the instructions on the label.
In Which Sports and Health Supplements Can Find Yerba Mate Extract
The caffeine-containing herb Yerba Mate is most commonly used in herbal tonics, thermogenic and complex fat burners.
