Source:
Yerba maté (Llex paraquarensis) - is an evergreen
holly native to the rainforests of Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil.
Also known as Paraquay tea, Brazilian tea, etc. the herb is brewed
from the dried leaves and steams of the perennial tree Llex paraquarensis.
In the wild state the plant can actually grow into a tree. Cultivated
the herb remains a small, multi-stemmed shrub with non-descript
green leaves. |
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Traditional uses:
Yerba maté has been used for centuries by
South Americans has a natural stimulant to help improve alertness
and concentration, as well as, promoting a generalized feeling of
well-being.
Physiology:
Yerba maté acts as a stimulant very similar to coffee
however, the stimulant effect last longer and their are no side
effects i.e. irritability or insomnia. The most significant active
ingredient in Yerba maté is theobromine which is homologous
with and resembling caffeine. The theobromine is responsible for
Yerba maté's ability to enhanced metabolic rate, diuretic
effects and appetite suppressing properties.
Clinical
Studies:
Swiss researchers have reported that Yerba maté may
be beneficial as a weight loss supplement (Phytomedicine, 1999).
Yerba maté is also responsible for enhancing bile flow while
increasing intestinal transit time. (Pharmacognosy: Phytochemistry
and Medicinal Plants, Intercept Ltd., 1999.)
Modern day
uses:
Yerba maté is the main ingredient in one of the most popular
drinks in South America consumed by millions of individuals each
year as an alternative to coffee. Yerba maté is also responsible
for the following positive effects:
- Weight loss (appetite suppressant)
- Natural diuretic
- Reduces the symptoms of fatigue
- Promotes generalized feeling of well-being (reduces stress and
eliminate insomnia)
- Anti-aging properties (restores youthful hair color, improves
memory)
- Boosts the effects of the immune system
- Increases mental alertness and acuity
- Decreases the symptoms associated with depression
- Relieves constipation (Yerba Maté also acts on the digestive
system by stimulating peristaltic movements)
- Decease blood pressure (Yerba maté contains xanthines
that promote the relaxation of peripheral blood vessels)
- Treatment of asthma
- Nutrients (valuable source of Vitamin A, C, E, B-1, B-2, riboflavin,
pantothenic acid, magnesium, calcium, choline, iron, xanthine,
folic acid, inositol, etc)
Precautions
and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult with
their physician particularly if they are taking prescription or
over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant
or breast feeding and children should also consult with there physician
prior to taking any new supplements. Yerba maté provides
all of the above positive effects, as well as, stimulates the central
nervous system in a non habituating or addicting manner. Currently,
there are no significant side effects reported with the use of Yerba
maté at the time of this writing. |
General
Herbal Information
