CLINICAL SUMMARY
Derived from the leaf of the plant. Yerba mate contains caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine, which are responsible for the stimulant activity of this herb. No clinical studies have evaluated its efficacy, although there is extensive experience with each of the previously mentioned chemicals. Epidemiologic studies conducted in the past decade indicate that chronic mate drinkers are at an increased risk of bladder (10), oral, esophageal (8), and lung cancer (9). Frequently reported adverse effects include insomnia, restlessness, agitation, nausea, vomiting, and headache (5). Yerba mate may interact with many prescription medications. Increased or altered activity of beta-adrenergic agonists, CNS stimulants, theophylline, diuretics, and caffeine-containing beverages may occur with concomitant administration (6). Patients with hypertension, cardiac disorders or anxiety, or women who are pregnant or breast feeding, should not consume yerba mate.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Ilex paraguariensis
ALSO KNOWN AS
Yerba mate, St. Bartholomew’s tea, Jesuit’s tea, ilex, hervea, guyaki Paraguay tea
PURPORTED USES
* Appetite suppression
* Central nervous system stimulation
* Depression
* Fatigue
* Headaches
* Pain
* Promote urination
CONSTITUENTS
* Xanthene alkaloids: 1-2% caffeine, 0.45-0.9% theobromine, 0.05% theophylline
* Tannins: 4-16% caffeic and chlorogenic acids
* Amines: Choline and trigonelline
* Amino acids
* Flavonoids: Kaemferol, quercetin, and rutin
* Volatile Oils
* Other constituents: Ursolic acid (antitumor agent), vitamins B2, B6, C, niacin, pantothenic acid
(1)
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Mate’s action is due to its caffeine, theophylline and theobromine activity, which are well documented.
WARNINGS
High doses and prolonged consumption of mate tea are associated with an increased risk of certain cancers.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Warnings associated with caffeine apply to mate. Patients with hypertension, cardiac disorders, and anxiety should not consume mate.
Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not consume mate.
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ADVERSE REACTIONS
Reported: Insomnia, anxiety, tremor, restlessness, agitation, nausea and vomiting, palpitations, and headache
(5)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Aspirin: Mate may increase absorption and bioavailability.
Acetaminophen: Pain relief of acetaminophen is increased due to caffeine content in mate.
Benzodiazepines: Effects of benzodiazepines are reduced by caffeine content in mate.
Beta-Adrenergic Agonists: Effects of beta-adrenergic agonists are increased by mate.
Clozapine: Mate may alter effects.
CNS Stimulants: Mate may increase effects.
Monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAO-I): Mate can cause hypertensive crisis.
Theophylline: Mate may increase effects and lead to possible toxicity.
Diuretics: Mate may cause an additive effect.
(6)