The First Source
of Information for Everything You Wanted To Know About Yerba Mate
Nutritional Content
Yerba Mate is a plant reputed
to be the most nutritious plant in the world. Indeed, many of the health
benefits of Yerba Mate are derived from extracting its pleathora of nutrients.
The easiest, safest, and best way to drink it is via the Traditional
Method; a 2005 laboratory study confirmed the method's ability to
deliver more nutrients than either green tea or red wine (Bixby, Spieler,
Menini, Gugliuccit, Life Sciences, 2005, #77 pgs 345-358). Some of the
more notable nutrients:
-
Vitamins
B-1, B-2, A, riboflavin, carotene, colin, pantothenic acid, inositol
and 15 types of aminoacids (F. Alikaridis 1987)
-
Significant
quantities of potasssium, sodium and magnesium are present in the
leaves as well as the infusion. (Tenorio Sanz, Torija Isasa 1991)
-
It is often simply said
that Yerba Mate is similar to green tea, though much more nutritious.
Lab Tests have confirmed that Yerba Mate delivers more polyphenols
and flavanoids than either red wine or green tea. (Bixby, et. al,
2005)
- Mate has eleven polyphenols
(Kawakami, A. Kabayashi 1991).
-
Recent studies from
the US indicate that polyphenols are powerful antioxidants that
strengthen the organism´s natural defenses, and protect
it against the cellular destruction that cause physical deterioration
and the development of sicknesses. (J. Carper 1988).
-
"The particular way
in which mate is drunk [Traditional Method], which usually implies
repeated extraction from a large (50-100 g) quantity of dry product
in a gourd, and intermittent consumption, many times for hours
in a row, would allow for maintenance plasma levels of polyphenols
which are usually not attained with green tea or moderate wine
drinking." (Bixby, et. al., Life Sciences, 2005)
- Yerba mate, just like many
herbs, is a good source of antioxidants and certainly deserves a spot
in one's kitchen next to other herbal teas. Dr.
Ray Sahelian
Yerba Mate is
an amazingly healthy tea for those seeking nutrients. As noted by The
Pasteur Institute and the Paris Scientific Society, "It is difficult
to find a plant in any area of the world equal to Mate in nutritional
value." Extract those nutrients!
Chemical Properties
Yerba Mate produces
an energy like coffee, but without the muscle tension so that one is able
to stay relaxed yet alert. It produces an energy from caffeine that is
unlike the caffeine energy of other caffeinated drinks. The addictive
properties of caffeine are negligable in Yerba Mate; almost no one reports
being addicted to Yerba Mate and next to none report any withdrawl symptoms
like those reported with most other caffeinated drinks.
Unique Caffeine
Content
A review of the
literature shows that "Yerba Mate is widely considered to be a good
natural stimulant that may be healthier than coffee, due to a unique combination
of alkaloids and a relatively small caffeine content." (alternet.org)
The unique combination of alkaloids that are bound around the Caffeine
produce less body tension. The Herbal Stimulant Tea Sampler writes, "The
effects are relatively long lasting, inducing a type of mental clarity
and expansion of thought processing capabilities. A feeling of enhanced
memory and accelerated intellect is often experienced, however the racy
edge of physical and mental stimulation is seldom noted. This state is
especially suiting to periods of intense study, calculations, and cerebral
activity requiring endurance to maintain continuous attention and precision
focusing."
The levels of
caffeine appear to be very small. Researchers at the ree Hygienic Institute
of Hamburg, Germany, concluded that the amount would be so tiny that it
would take 100 tea bags of Mate in a 6-ounce cup of water to equal the
caffeine in a 6-ounce serving of regular coffee. Since a gourd uses an
average of 50 grams of tea, thus it appears that 6 gourds worth of tea
(usually consumed over a few days) would equal the total caffeine in one
cup of coffee, yet would not produce the same stimulant affects as the
one cup of coffee.
The Yerba Mate
stimulant is basically a form of a xanthine. Theophylline, theobromine
and caffeine are all examples of xanthines. Caffeine, of course, is the
most used and most common of the xanthines. It is easily accessible in
any part of the world because of the benefits it can bestow upon its user.
- It is used in popular medicine
and employed in commercial herbal preparations as a stimulant to the
central nervous system . (Gosmann)
- It is especially convenient
that the caffeine in Yerba Mate is bound in a manner that makes it far
less addictive than any other form we know about.
There is some
who claim that this unique presentation of caffeine in the yerba mate
deserves another name; many call this Mateine. They claim, "Mateine
appears to possess the best combination of xanthine properties possible.
For example, like other xanthines, it stimulates the central nervous system,
but unlike most, it is not habituating or addicting . Likewise, unlike
caffeine, it induces better, not worse, attributes of sleep . It is a
mild, not a strong, diuretic, as are many xanthines. It relaxes peripheral
blood vessels, thereby reducing blood pressure , without the strong pressure
effect on the medulla and heart exhibited by some xanthines. We also know
that it improves psychomotor performance without the typical xanthine-induced
depressant after effects." ( from Yerba Mate: Unequaled Natural Nutrition
by Dr. Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D.) This view is not perfectly accurate, as
it is actually the unique binding of the caffeine that creates the unique
affects, Mateine more accurately refers to this binding and not to the
caffeine itself..
Yerba Mate is
about the tea, not the water. Traditionally, one uses as little water
as possible to extract the maximum nutrients. One traditional use of Yerba
Mate is as a tonic and diuretic; the water consumed with yerba mate should
not count as part of your daily water intake. The gourd and straw combine
to create a "reverse french press" in which a large amount of nutrients
can be extracted with very little water.
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
Overview of Yerba
Mate 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
- beneficial to the digestive
tract
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.
Stimulant, Study
Aid, and Alzheimers Prevention
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate is the perfect stimulant for mental activities (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
One striking feature of Yerba
Mate is that it could reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
This is because Yerba Mate is high in antioxidant; "A diet high
in antioxidants may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's
disease." (Robert P. Friedland, MD, chief of the neurogeriatrics
laboratory at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 2000).
Laboratory tests confirm
that among antioxidant rich beverages, "studies suggest that Ilex
paraguariensis extracts [Yerba Mate via the Traditional Method] are
more effective than either green tea or red wines." (Bixby, Spieler,
Menini, Gugliuccit, Life Sciences, 2005, #77 pgs 345-358)
Students have found the chemical
properties of Yerba Mate to be perfect for studying. Coffee and colas
contain a caffeine blend that has been shown to impair memory, disturb
sleep and cause nervousness. These are side effects that do not help
one to study effectively. Yerba Mate, on the other hand, has been shown
to not impair memory, cause nervousness or disturb sleep like caffeine.
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, is an amazing stimulant that molds well with studying
and fighting Alzheimer's disease.
Sleep
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate can improve sleep (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
Dr. Tenorio Sanz notes that
people report requiring less sleep when using Yerba Mate. ( "Mineral
Elements in Mate Herb (Ilex Paraguariensis St. H.), "Arch Latinoam Nutr
41.3 (1991): 441-54.) Generally, during sleep the mind is active while
the body rests. Yerba Mate, as noted, is the perfect tool to reach this
state.
Charles Darwin noted in
1836 what holds true today, "We arrived at camp during the night,
and after drinking a lot of Yerba Mate, I prepared to go to sleep. I
was surprised to discover that my sleep was very deep and refreshing,
Although the wind was very strong and the night was chilly, I never
slept more comfortable". Darwin goes on to note that "he had
the most profound dreams as a result of drinking the tea. (Voyage of
the Beagle)
Yerba Mate will stimulate
the mind. Many are able to fall asleep with an active mind (e.g., counting
sheep), but others find that an active mind keeps them awake, even if
the body is relaxed. For this reason, Yerba Mate may not be beneficial
for those whose minds keep them awake.
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, is an amazing stimulant that can improve the sleeping
experience for many of its users.
Muscles
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate aides the muscles (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
Yerba
Mate is loaded with 15 types of aminoacids (F. 1987).
By relaxing the muscles
of the body and feeding them the necessary amino acids contained in
Mate , muscles repair themselves in their relaxed state.
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, possibly will decrease your cardiovascular risk
Mood and Stress
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate aids in the treatment stress and improves mood (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
Mood can be improved by using
Yerba Mate. It is popularly said that most stimulants awaken the body,
yet Yerba Mate awakens the soul. The use of Yerba Mate as a mood enhancer
is common.
The Complete German Commission
E Monographs lists "Mental and physical fatigue" as one of its uses.
Thomas Bartram's Encyclopedia
of Herbal Medicine lists Yerba Mate as a reliever of "Physical exhaustion
from stress."
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, can change your mood, reduce your fatigue, and awaken
the soul.
Immune System
Booster
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate boosts the immune system (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
"Recent studies from
the U.S. indicate that polyphenols are powerful antioxidants that strengthen
the organism´s natural defenses, and protect it against the cellular
destruction that cause physical deterioration and the development of
sicknesses." (J. Carper 1988). No surprise, Yerba Mate is loaded
with Polyphenols (Kawakami, A. Kabayashi 1991).
Laboratory tests confirm
that the Traditional Method provides "the highest concentration of
polyphenols, followed by red wines and green tea." (Bixby, Spieler,
Menini, Gugliuccit, Life Sciences, 2005, #77 pgs 345-358) They also
found that the Traditional Method, "which usually implies repeated extraction
from a large (50-100 g) quantity of dry product in a gourd, and intermittent
consumption, many times for hours in a row, would allow for maintenance
plasma levels of polyphenols which are usually not attained with green
tea or moderate wine drinking."
"Given the growing importance
of flavonoids such as quercetin, rutin, and catechins as putative modulators
of LDL oxidation, and in some systems as inhibitors of genotoxicity,
herbs with a high concentration of these compounds and widespread
ethnopharmacological use are of special interest. One of them is Ilex
paraguariensis [Yerba Mate]." (Gugliucci*,
N. Bracesco, et al., 2002)
Laboratory tests confirm
that "flavonoid rich beverages [Yerba Mate] could represent an alternative
coadjuvant in treatment. In this regard, our studies suggest that Ilex
paraguariensis extracts [Yerba Mate via the Traditional Method] are
more effective than either green tea or red wines." (Bixby, Spieler,
Menini, Gugliuccit, Life Sciences, 2005, #77 pgs 345-358)
Another popular claim is that
Yerba Mate can treat a cold or Flu.
This claim may be in large
part to the fact that Yerba Mate is a hot drink which bestows benefits.
As WebMD notes, drinking hot liquids can treat colds or a Flu. "Hot
liquids relieve nasal congestion, prevent dehydration, and soothe the
uncomfortably inflamed membranes that line your nose and throat. If
you're so congested you can't sleep at night, try a hot toddy, an age-old
remedy. Make a cup of hot herbal tea." (October,
2005) Yerba mate is another great nutritional, natural, hot liquid
remedy to treat colds or flu.
The claim is also attributed
to the benefits bestowed by Yerba Mate's many nutrients.
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, boosts the immune system and helps to treat colds
and Flu.
Hunger
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate boosts the immune system (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
Traditionally
used as a supportive treatment in weight loss programs that include
diet and exercise. In Europe Yerba Mate is used for weight loss "as
the ideal slimming remedy which facilitates losing weight in a natural
way and stills the distressing feelings of hunger," according to
Max Witchl in Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals.
The popular Chilean herbalists
J. Zin and R. Weiss supported what Peace Corps workers had reported.
They found cases in which large groups of natives remained in good health,
with only one small meal per day, through extended periods of famine
and draught. They survived by drinking copious amounts of Mate.
Although the research identifies
that our product contains many of the essential nutrients to sustain
life, we suggest you only use our products to ensure a well-balanced
meal along with a regular healthy diet. Use Yerba Mate by following
the ancient principles of tea consumption
a tool for regulating your calorie intake, controling your hunger, and
increasing your bodies potential to maintain a well-balanced diet.
Researchers at the University
of Surrey in Guildford, England found a reduction in appetite and
thirst when using Yerba Mate.
Dulloo, A., et al. noted
in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition that a drink like Yerba
Mate can increase the "24-h energy expenditure and fat oxidation
in humans." (1999). Thus, more calories are burned when drinking
Yerba Mate.
WebMD's Dr. Gary Vogin notes
that some diets, like a Juice Diet, fails to include enough essential
nutrients. He states, "Juice diets prevent your body from going
into ketosis, but they're not a long-term weight-loss solution because
they deny the body other essential nutrients." Yerba Mate in conjunction
with juice would provide more nutrients than juice alone. Consider adding
Yerba Mate to your diet approach in an effort to make it a more reliabe
"long-term weight-loss solution".
Dr. Torben Andersen
conducted a study in which overweight patients lost 11 lbs. in 45 days
while using Yerba Mate in conjuction with other weight loss herbs. (Journal
of Human Nutrition and Dietetics Volume 14 Issue 3 Page 243 - June 2001)
He found that it contributed to "weight loss and delayed gastric
emptying following a South American herbal preparation in overweight
patients." His study:
Obesity and overweight
may soon affect more than half of the population in some regions of
the world and are associated with diabetes, hypertension and other
diseases that cause morbidity, mortality and high health-care expenditure.
No one approach, whether dietetic management, medication, or commercial
weight loss programme, can alone solve the problem - all potential
treatments need to be investigated and exploited. Among the herbal
preparations known to non-western cultures are materials which may
have applications in modulating physiological processes which influence
gut motility, food intake and energy balance. One such mixed herbal
preparation is 'YGD' containing Yerbe Maté (leaves of Ilex paraguayensis),
Guarana (seeds of Paullinia cupana) and Damiana (leaves of Turnera
diffusa var. aphrodisiaca). Aims This study had two distinct aims:
to determine the effect of a herbal preparation 'YGD' containing Yerbe
Maté, Guarana and Damiana on gastric emptying; to determine the effect
of the same preparation on weight loss over 10 days and 45 days and
weight maintenance over 12 months. Methods Gastric emptying was observed
using ultrasound scanning in seven healthy volunteers following YGD
and placebo capsules taken with 420 mL apple juice. Body weight was
observed before and after 10 days of treatment with three YGD capsules
or three placebo capsules before each meal for 10 days in 44 healthy
overweight patients attending a primary health care centre. Forty-seven
healthy overweight patients entered a double-blind placebo-controlled
parallel trial of three capsules of YGD capsules before each main
meal for 45 days compared with three placebo capsules on body weight.
Body weight was monitored in 22 patients who continued active (YGD
capsules) treatment for 12 months. Results The herb preparation YGD
was followed by a prolonged gastric emptying time of 58 ± 15 min compared
to 38 ± 7.6 min after placebo (P=0.025). Body weight reductions were
0.8 ± 0.05 kg after YGD capsules compared to 0.3 ± 0.03 kg after placebo
capsules over 10 days, and 5.1 ± 0.5 kg after PGD capsules compared
to 0.3 ± 0.08 kg after placebo over 45 days. Active treatment with
YGD capsules resulted in weight maintenance of the group (73 kg at
the beginning and 72.5 kg at the end of 12 months). Conclusions The
herbal preparation, YGD capsules, significantly delayed gastric emptying,
reduced the time to perceived gastric fullness and induced significant
weight loss over 45 days in overweight patients treated in a primary
health care context. Maintenance treatment given in an uncontrolled
context resulted in no further weight loss, nor weight regain in the
group as a whole. The herbal preparation is thus shown to be one that
significantly modulates gastric emptying. Further clinical studies
with dietetic monitoring of energy intake, dietary quality, satiety
ratings, body weight and body composition are now indicated, and examination
of the active principles contained in the three herbal components
may prove rewarding.
Our products help eliminate
feelings of hunger. It works as a natural appetite suppressant. Research
shows that the body is truly revitalized when it drinks yerba Mate. Be
smart and eat right! Yerba Mate, consumed in the Traditional Method, could
become the most important part of your healthy diet.
Cardiovascular
Aide
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate decreases cardiovascular risk (e.g., retailer Guayaki
and manufacturer Rosamonte).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
A
"Polyphenol-rich diet decreases cardiovascular risk. LDL oxidation
is the primary event in atherosclerosis plaque formation and antioxidants
such as polyphenols were shown to inhibit LDL oxidation and atherosclerosis
development." Incorporating more Polyphenols into your diet would
be wise.No surprise, Yerba Mate is loaded with Polyphenols (Kawakami,
A. Kabayashi 1991).
"Given the growing importance
of flavonoids such as quercetin, rutin, and catechins as putative modulators
of LDL oxidation, and in some systems as inhibitors of genotoxicity,
herbs with a high concentration of these compounds and widespread
ethnopharmacological use are of special interest. One of them is Ilex
paraguariensis [Yerba Mate]." (Gugliucci*,
N. Bracesco, et al., 2002)
Bixby, et. al. confirmed
Yerba Mate as the most effective source of flavonoids. Their laboratory
tests confirmed that "flavonoid rich beverages could represent an alternative
coadjuvant in treatment. In this regard, our studies suggest that Ilex
paraguariensis extracts [Yerba Mate via the Traditional Method] are
more effective than either green tea or red wines." (Life Sciences,
2005, #77 pgs 345-358)
Yerba Mate is loaded with
antioxidants. WebMD
notes: "The detoxifying effect of these antioxidants protects
cells from free radicals, the damage that can lead to blood clot formation,
atherosclerosis, and cancer, says Weisburger. The bulk of research shows
that regular tea drinkers, people who drink two cups or more a day,
have less heart disease and stroke, lower total and LDL (often called
"bad") cholesterol, and that they recover from heart attacks faster."
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, possibly will decrease your cardiovascular risk.
Exercise
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate aids athletic events (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
The use of caffeine as a
potential ergogenic aid is not new; the Medical Commission of the International
Olympic Committee (IOC) first banned caffeine in 1962, rescinded the
ban a decade later, and recently reclassified it as a restricted drug
(an illegal dose is greater than 12 mg/L in urine). Most athletes consume
caffeine as strong, black coffee; others take over-the-counter antidrowsiness
preparations that contain caffeine. Once ingested, orally administered
caffeine is almost completely absorbed. Plasma caffeine concentration
peaks about 45 to 60 minutes after a single 250-mg dose, although individuals
vary in their response. Under normal ingestion regimens, it is highly
unlikely that any individual could exceed the current IOC limit. Caffeine
affects almost every organ system, with the most obvious being the central
nervous system. The stimulant increases alertness, reduces perceived
effort during exercise, and decreases reaction time. At high doses (more
than 15 mg/kg body weight), caffeine can also produce bradycardia, hypertension,
nervousness, irritability, insomnia, and gastrointestinal distress (3).
In the first study (4) of caffeine as an ergogenic aid, a single dose
(5 mg/kg body weight) ingested 60 minutes before exercise increased
time to fatigue by 20% during intense cycling (80% of VO2 max) (4).
Other laboratory (5) and field (6) studies confirmed the benefits of
caffeine for endurance performance. The postulated mechanism for the
improved exercise capacity was a rise in circulating free-fatty-acid
concentration, an increase in fatty acid oxidation, and a reduction
in carbohydrate utilization during exercise. Evidence of a glycogen-sparing
effect--most apparent during the early stages of exercise--has been
found in every study that has determined muscular glycogen levels after
caffeine ingestion (7,8). There is little doubt among scientists that
caffeine positively affects fat metabolism, and that ingestion in legal
quantities can improve performance in continuous, moderate-intensity
exercise (submaximal exercise lasting more than 15 minutes) (3). When
compared with placebo, caffeine (150 to 250 mg) has also been shown
to improve 5-minute running and cycling performance in moderately or
well-trained athletes who perform at or near their VO2 max (3). In contrast,
caffeine has no ergogenic effect on maximal anaerobic (sprint) events
lasting less than 30 seconds or maximal graded exercise to exhaustion
(9). (From
John A. Hawley, PhD THE PHYSICIAN AND SPORTSMEDICINE - VOL 26 - NO.
9 - SEPTEMBER 98)
It is worth noting that Yerba
Mate contains a unique caffeine binding that makes it exceptional as
a tool for endurance performances. These unique properties should be
explored above, under 'Chemical Properties'.
The Complete German Commission
E Monographs lists "Mental and physical fatigue" as one of its
uses.
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, can be an excelent aid to an exercise routine.
Reduce Risk of
Diabetes
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate reduces the risk of Diabetes (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
Yerba
Mate "retarded the development of hyperglycaemia in streptozotocin
diabetes and reduced the hyperphagia, polydipsia, body weight loss,
and glycated haemoglobin." (NCBI,
27. Swanston-Flatt SK, 1989 "Glycaemic effects of traditional European
plant treatments for diabetes. Studies in normal and streptozotocin
diabetic mice." Diabetes Res 10(2), 69-73.)
Lean, M.E., et al. Dietary
flavonols protect diabetic human lymphocytes against oxidative damage
to DNA. Diabetes. 1999; 48:176-181
"New and 'causal' antioxidant
therapy is warranted. Anti-nitration drugs (to be designed) might be
additional therapeutic goals to slow the course of diabetes macrovascular
complications. While waiting for these focused tools, flavonoid rich
beverages could represent an alternative coadjuvant in treatment. In
this regard, our studies suggest that Ilex paraguariensis extracts [Yerba
Mate via the Traditional Method] are more effective than either green
tea or red wines." (Bixby, Spieler, Menini, Gugliuccit, Life Sciences,
2005, #77 pgs 345-358)
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, possibly will reduce your risk of diabetes.
Yerba Mate as a tool for
Detox
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate is a good tool to detoxify and cleanse the body (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
According to
The Review of Natural Products, Facts and Comparisons Group, Yerba Mate
stimulates intestinal contractions and softens stools, thus generally
helping to detox the body by controlling constipation and increasing
the water loss from digestive movements, urination ,and evacuation.
(February, 1997)
It is worth
noting the following Ancient Chinese Proverb, "Better to be deprived
of food for three days, than tea for one."
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, could become a part of any detox ritual.
Stimulant
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate is a better stimulant than Green tea, Coffee, or other caffeinated
drinks (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
Yerba Mate´s stimulant action is longer than that of coffee and
many note that it does not have the same side effects such as insomnia
and irritability. These claims are supported by both its historical use
and medical research. See the above section on 'Chemical Properties' for
more information.
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, is an amazing stimulant.
Cancer Prevention
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate possibly prevents some forms of cancer (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
Lab results show benefits
from flavanoids, but regular tea "flavonoids to plasma and tissue
antioxidant activity in humans is now thought to be relatively minor"
(Oregon State University, 2005) Specificially: "Green and black
tea have been found to have cancer preventive activity in a variety
of animal models of cancer, including cancer of the skin, lung, mouth,
esophagus, stomach, colon, pancreas, bladder and prostate (22,
23). White tea and green tea recently were shown to suppress intestinal
polyps in mice (see Tea Complements Drugs in Fight Against Colon Cancer).
In most cases, flavonoids appear to contribute substantially
to the cancer preventing effects of tea, but caffeine has also been
found to have cancer preventing activity in some animal models of skin
(24)
and lung cancer (25).
Although beneficial effects of tea flavonoids were often attributed
to their antioxidant activity, the overall contribution of tea flavonoids
to plasma and tissue antioxidant activity in humans is now thought to
be relatively minor (26).
Currently scientists are focusing their attention on the potential for
tea flavonoids to modulate cell signaling pathways that promote the
transformation of healthy cells to cancerous cells (27)
" (Jane
Higdon, Ph.D. Linus Pauling Institute Oregon State University , 2005).
Fortunately, as Bixby's
2005 lab results confirm, the Traditional Method, which uses very
little water, is the most effective way to benefit from Yerba Mate's
many nutritive values. The Traditional Method of consuming Yerba Mate
increases your ability to extract more flavonoids than any other method;
"flavonoid rich beverages [Yerba Mate] could represent an alternative
coadjuvant in treatment. In this regard, our studies suggest that Ilex
paraguariensis extracts [Yerba Mate via the Traditional Method] are
more effective than either green tea or red wines." (Bixby, Spieler,
Menini, Gugliuccit, Life Sciences, 2005, #77 pgs 345-358).
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, possibly prevents some cancers.
Allergies and
Asthma
Claims
One popular claim is that Yerba
Mate aids in the treatment of allergies and asthma (e.g., retailer Guayaki).
These claims are supported by both its historical use and medical research.
"The Mediterranean diet is
rich in sources of polyphenols, so it's intriguing that Mediterranean-diet
countries have lower rates of allergies, asthma and other inflammatory
diseases than Western-diet countries like the United States, Canada
and England. http://www.med.umich.edu/opm/newspage/2004/allergies.htm
No surprise, Yerba Mate is loaded with Polyphenols (Kawakami, A. Kabayashi
1991).
Yerba Mate stimulates the
adrenal glands to produce corticosteroids. In turn, they suppress overactive
immune system responses to allergens, suppress inflammation, and creates
more oxygen flow by opening the respiratory passages.
"Herbs and plant products
[including Yerba Mate] are extremely helpful for asthma. Michael Heinrich,
at the Center for Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, School of Pharmacy,
in London, discovered that a key target for asthma (as well as arthritis)
is the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) transduction pathway, which
activates many inflammatory cytokines. Some well-known plant chemicals
that target NF-kappaB include several phenolics such as curcumin (in
curcumin), and flavonoids, such as silybin (in milk thistle)"
(Bremner
and Heinrich 2002).
Laboratory tests confirm
that "flavonoid rich beverages [Yerba Mate] could represent an
alternative coadjuvant in treatment. In this regard, our studies suggest
that Ilex paraguariensis extracts [Yerba Mate via the Traditional Method]
are more effective than either green tea or red wines." (Bixby, Spieler,
Menini, Gugliuccit, Life Sciences, 2005, #77 pgs 345-358)
Yerba Mate, consumed in the
Traditional Method, aids with Allergies and Asthma.
General Benefit
Note:
Jane Higdon, Ph.D, Oregon State
University, writes that it may be difficult to drink enough of a tea "to
reach sufficient plasma and tissue levels of tea polyphenols to realize
a protective effect." The American Chemical Society supports this
claim by noting that the "direct measurements in people's blood"
when using a tea without the gourd and straw are "typically
less than one-tenth" the amount shown to produce any significant
result. (2003) Fortunately, the Traditional Method of consuming Yerba
Mate increases your ability to gain its many benefits. Laboratory
tests confirm that drinking mate via the Traditional Method may be the
only way to recieve certain benefits (Bixby, 2005; c.v. Palermo, 2003).
Drinking very little water
with tea is an ancient and important principle that should be considered
when drinking Yerba Mate. One can not safely recommend drinking copious
amounts of water with it. The Traditional Method of drinking Yerba Mate
with gourd and straw, which uses very little water, is the most effective
way to benefit from it's many nutritive values (Bixby, 2005: Life Science).
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.
General Use Principles
There are many ways to infuse
Yerba Mate into your diet and almost all traditional methods are based
on one underlying principle: Use as little water as possible to extract
the maximum nutrients throughout the day.
Drinking very little water
with tea is an ancient and important principle. Subhuti Dharmananda,
Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine in Portland, Oregon
examined classical medical literature for recommendations on the amount
of water to drink with hot tea. His review highlights the Chinese and
Ayurvedic tea principle of "just a few sips" (Use as little water as possible)."(2005).
We caution against drinking too much water with your Yerba Mate
as there is no historical precedence for doing so; it is neither traditional
nor common practice.
The latest evidence suggests
that the basic western style of drinking most teas (i.e., small tea
bag in water) does not extract sufficient nutrients or active ingredients
to benefit the body. Jane Higdon, Ph.D., who writes for The Linus
Pauling Institute at Oregon State University states that the regular approach
for drinking green tea may not extract sufficient levels of nutrients
to bring about certain health benefits, such as inhibiting the development
of cancer (2003).
Likewise, the Department of Environmental Medicine at the University of
Rochester notes that there is a level of tea compounds that must be in
the blood of a person in order to benefit the body (2003,
C. M. Palermo, J. I. Martin Hernando, et. al). They note that, "direct
measurements in people's blood, in contrast, typically are less than one-tenth
this amount." The Traditional Method
of Yerba Mate (with special straw and gourd) produces levels of nutrients
"which are usually not attained with green tea or moderate wine drinking"
(Bixby, 2005: Life Science) Additionally, the chemicals break down less
since the Yerba Mate is not left to soak like most teas. As noted by the
Harvard Medical School, "the best way to get the catechins and other flavonoids
in tea is to drink it freshly brewed. Decaffeinated, bottled ready-to-drink
tea preparations, and instant teas have less of these compounds." (2005).
The Traditional Method is the easiest, safest, and best way to drink Yerba
Mate, producing the freshest and most beneficial tonic.
To maximize the health benefits
of tea, it is best to drink it throughout the day. According to the
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, "…doing so throughout the day
may be the most beneficial because you get a constant supply of antioxidants…",
and that "studies touting the success of green tea report that subjects
drank between three and six cups of tea daily." (2005).
The Harvard Medical School concurs that the best method is to have "a
cup of tea a few times a day to absorb antioxidants and other healthful
plant compounds." (2005).
Over 90% of Argentinians drink Yerba Mate every day, throughout the day.
Both ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese principles, notes Dr. Dharmananda,
extol the benefits of drinking small amount of fluids often throughout
the day. It is an ancient principle to drink tea often and throughout
the day. The Chinese state clearly that it is "best to have the tea between
meals, not while very hungry, and not immediately after the meal (though
it can be taken shortly after eating in cases where the meal was too heavy,
in an effort to relieve the discomfort and aid the digestion of the food)."
(Dharmananda,
2005). The Latin Americans have found the best way to be the same
as the ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese principles. The ancient Latin American
method was described in 1889 by the cultural enthusiast Frank Vincent,
"Mate is taken the first thing in the morning, and again, about the middle
of the afternoon, regularly. Then, besides, whenever you call upon a person,
at anytime of day or evening, mate is generally served as a delicate attention,
whether your visit is of business or friendship." (Around and About South
America, Twenty Months of Quest and Query).
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