1. Antioxidant capacity - Studies indicate that consuming yerba mate tea can significantly contribute to antioxidant intake. Evidence indicates that the antioxidant capacity of yerba mate is higher than that of green tea, which is known as having a very high antioxidant capacity. Several caffeoyl derivatives seem to account for the antioxidant capacity.
2. Anti cancer effects - Scientifically backed reports reveal that yerba mate has anti cancer effects. It has been shown to be highly toxic to cancer cells, even more so than green tea.
3. Energizing effects - Yerba mate energizes and promotes a feeling of well being. No doubt due to the presence of xanthine compounds, one of which is caffeine. The caffeine content of 1 cup of mate tea is comparable to the caffeine content of 1 cup of coffee. Another xanthine present which may help with the energizing is theobromine, which also naturally occurs in chocolate.
4. Mineral content - Yerba mate contains a high concentration of several minerals important in human metabolism and development. Such as aluminum, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, nickel, potassium, and zinc.
5. Anti-inflammatory – Saponin compounds have been attributed with anti-inflammatory and cholesterol lowering properties. Several of these compounds have been isolated from the leaves of yerba mate.
6. Cardiovascular system – There appears to be benefits to the cardiovascular system. Experiments with rabbits reveals that mate tea can inhibit atherosclerosis in them. Extracts of mate given to rabbits with high cholesterol has been shown to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides.
7. Weight management and obesity – Mate tea has been shown to have possible positive effects for weight loss and weight management. Research has shown some support for this.
The above is a brief summary from current research of how one could benefit their health by drinking yerba mate tea.
Mate is bad.