Yerba Mate

Also Known As – Ilex paraguariensis

Origin - Brazil

Overview - Yerba mate is the dried leaves and stems of a South American rainforest holly, and is the national beverage of Paraguay. The term mate is a Guarani Indian word for gourd, referring to the hollowed out gourds once used to hold the tea. In traditional use of yerba mate, the tea cup is often shared among close friends and family, all of whom use thee same straw, or bombilla. Sharing the same straw is considered a sign of total acceptance and friendship. Yerba Mate is one of the worlds most effective and healing beverages with over 196 active compounds which shadows the active compounds found in Green tea (Camellia sinensis) which has about 144.

Medicinal Uses - Traditionally used for mental & physical fatigue; has caffeine. Mate is used as a stimulant to relieve mental and physical tiredness (fatigue), as well as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). It is also used for heart-related complaints including heart failure, irregular heartbeat, and low blood pressure.

• Some people use mate to improve mood and depression; to relieve headache and joint pains; to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), and bladder and kidney stones; for weight loss; and as a laxative.

Parts Used – Dried leaves and leaf fragments, mixtures frequently include flowers.

Precautions - In some cases, consumption of yerba mate may trigger adverse effects such as anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and headache.

• Due to yerba mate's caffeine content, people with high blood pressure, heart disease, and anxiety should avoid the tea or extract. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also avoid yerba mate.

Preparation and Dosage - Traditionally used as a tea, and sometimes available in tea bags, though less effective as such.

Disclaimer - The information presented herein by Mountain Maus’ Remedies is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.