Yerba Mate Drink: Five Health Benefits of Nature’s Gift

Nature offers so many plants that benefit our bodies and help us to achieve better health. The Yerba mate tree is one of those plants. Yerba mate, an evergreen that is a close relative of the holly plant, grows in the subtropical areas of South America, mostly in Argentina, southern Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay, and it was historically consumed in these areas. These days, yerba mate drink can be found all over the world as a tea or as an ingredient in energy drinks.

The leaves and twigs of the yerba mate plant are dried and brewed into a tea that is served either hot or cold. It has an earthy flavor reminiscent of green tea and an aroma similar to eucalyptus. Yerba mate drinks offer many health benefits.

1) More Energy, Less Fatigue

Yerba mate drinks contain naturally occurring caffeine. They have more caffeine than traditional black tea, but less than a standard cup of coffee. This perfect balance of caffeine helps to increase energy levels. Many people consume yerba mate drinks to enjoy an energy boost without the jittery feeling that coffee can cause.

The health benefits of caffeine have been the topic of many scientific studies. Consistent caffeine intake has shown to prevent erectile disfunction, increase mood, and stimulate the bowels. Studies suggest that caffeine can also boost athletic endurance and athletic performance. The moderate amount of caffeine found in yerba mate drinks can be considered healthy when consumed in moderation.

2) Increased Mental Alertness

Yerba mate drinks have been shown to increase mental alertness and sharpen mental focus when consumed regularly. People report enhanced memory function when they enjoy yerba mate drinks. Compounds within yerba mate trigger dopamine neurotransmitters in the brain, which are responsible for motivation and productivity.

Some studies have suggested that moderate consumption of yerba mate drinks can help to prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, though more research is required in this area.

3) Weight Loss

Studies have shown that people who consume yerba mate drinks experience an increase in their metabolism. Metabolism is the rate at which the body burns calories. This increase in metabolism, combined with regular physical activity, leads to steady weight loss over time.

Studies also suggest that yerba mate drinks contain a certain type of bacteria that changes the way fat is digested. 

It is also believed that yerba mate drinks reduce food cravings. It may also act as an appetite suppressant in some people. Combining a lower appetite with increased energy can help with weight loss and weight management.

4) Antioxidants

Yerba mate drinks contain antioxidants, which help to heal and prevent cellular damage. Vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium and zinc are all antioxidants found in yerba mate drinks.

Antioxidants aid in combatting against the negative effects of environmental hazards, such as air pollution and cigarette smoke. These hazards can cause excessive free radicals, which, in turn, can lead to chronic diseases. Antioxidant properties of yerba mate drinks can help combat these free-radicals and help the body to stay healthy.

5) Infection

Some small scientific studies have suggested that yerba mate drinks may inhibit bacteria growth. One test-tube study has shown that yerba mate counteracted the effects of E. Coli. Another small study suggested that yerba mate stopped the growth of a fungus that is responsible for dandruff and other skin disorders. Further larger-scale scientific testing is required, but these small studies hint at the possibility of some exciting health benefits of yerba mate drinks.

Yerba mate drinks have been enjoyed for their health benefits since ancient times, first by the Guarani people of South America, and then later by the entire world. Yerba mate plants grow indigenously in many South American countries and are also now grown commercially on plantations in these areas. Currently, Argentina is the world’s leader in yerba mate production.

Yerba mate drinks are incredibly popular in most South American countries. They are enjoyed as a relaxing beverage, to boost health and energy, and as part of a rich cultural heritage. As the popularity moves beyond South America, the rest of the world is starting to learn of the benefits and enjoyment that a yerba mate drink can bring. Whether it is for the taste, the health benefits or both, yerba mate drinks make excellent additions to anyone’s morning routine.