Organic Connections Yerba Mate Leaf Green (Organic Loose) - 454g

Yerba Mate
By: Naturopathic Doctor (N.D.)

A stimulant herb that may help in the regulation of blood sugar and cholesterol levels…

The yerba mate tree (Ilex paraguariensis) is native to South America and has long been used to make a caffeine-containing hot beverage calling mate. It starts as a shrub and eventually grows to be a full tree. It has long been used as a social drink and also for its medicinal value.

Mate
A beverage commonly consumed in South America is called mate, and is made from the leaves and small twigs of the yerba mate tree steeped in hot (not boiling) water. It has a strong herbal or grassy flavour that is reminiscent of some types of green tea. It is often passed around in social settings and shared among the group.

Stimulant
Yerba mate contains three stimulant molecules known as xanthines. The main one of interest is caffeine, but yerba mate also contains theobromine and theophylline, both of which have similar effects. These xanthines also relax smooth muscles, and help to prevent cramps and spasms, while increasing heart rate and blood pressure. These constituents may also provide antioxidant benefits. 

Cholesterol Lowering
Drinking mate tea has been clinically shown to help promote healthy cholesterol levels. It was found to reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, while also increasing HDL (“good”) cholesterol. The effects were found to be even more significant in those already on statin therapy.

Diabetes
A recent clinical trial found that drinking mate tea significantly reduced fasting glucose levels and also reduced hemoglobin A1c levels (HbA1c). This means that drinking mate tea can help to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent the spikes that can cause damage to arteries and nerves.

Weight Loss
Many supplement companies promote Yerba mate as a weight loss aid. There is little research in this area. It is likely that the stimulant effects of the xanthines allow for a reduced need for food energy sources. It also stabilizes blood sugar levels, helping to prevent energy crashes throughout the day. Through this way, Yerba mate may be able to support a reduced caloric intake, and help eliminate the common side effects of dieting.

How can I take Yerba Mate?
A tea can be brewed with Yerba mate in hot (not boiling) water, and steeped for several minutes. This tea can be taken throughout the day for its stimulating effects, and to help in the treatment of diabetes and high cholesterol. Yerba mate is also available in powdered form and can be found alone and in combination formulas for energy boosting and weight loss. The dose of yerba mate has not yet been established, so it is best to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Yerba Mate – Quick Facts

Parts Used
· Leaves And Twigs Of Yerba Mate (Ilex Paraguariensis) Tree.

Applications
· Diabetes, high cholesterol, Fatigue, Weight Loss

Optimum Dosage
· Tea Can Be Consumed As Required. Powdered Supplements Should Be Taken As The Manufacturer Recommends. (Clinical Doses May Be Higher As Recommended By Your Practitioner).

Important Information
· Mate Should Not Be Used During Pregnancy And Breast-Feeding. There Have Been Cases Of Withdrawal Symptoms In Newborns And Preterm Births And Slowed Growth.
· Drinking Hot Mate Tea May Increase The Risk Of Certain Cancers Of The Throat And Neck.
· Due To Caffeine Content, Those On Stimulants And With Insomnia Should Avoid The Use Of Yerba Mate.
· Avoid Use If You Have A History Of Alcoholism, Smoking, Bleeding Disorder, Heart Condition, Ibs, Or High Blood Pressure.