Journal of Tea Science Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 123-133 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/jtsr 123 Feature Review Open Access Yerba Mate: Comprehensive Review of Its Phytochemistry, Health Benefits, and Cultural Significance in South America AnnieNyu The HITAR Institute Canada, British Columbia, Canada Corresponding email: annienyu@hitar.org Journal of Tea Science Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.2 doi: 10.5376/jtsr.2024.14.0012 Received: 09 Feb., 2024 Accepted: 15 Mar., 2024 Published: 23 Apr., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Nyu, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Nyu A., 2024, Yerba Mate: comprehensive review of its phytochemistry, health benefits, and cultural significance in South America, Journal of Tea Science Research, 14(2): 123-133 (doi: 10.5376/jtsr.2024.14.0012) Abstract Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is a traditional South American beverage renowned for its unique phytochemical composition and numerous health benefits. In countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, Yerba Mate holds significant cultural value in daily life and social activities. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of Yerba Mate's phytochemical composition, health benefits, cultural significance, and economic impact. By reviewing current research and innovations, this study offers insights into Yerba Mate's potential as a functional beverage and its role in modern society. The findings reveal that Yerba Mate is rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, xanthines, and saponins, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic health benefits. Regular consumption of Yerba Mate is associated with improved cardiovascular health, enhanced metabolic function, weight management, and potential neuroprotective effects. Yerba Mate holds profound cultural and social significance in South America, symbolizing community and tradition. Additionally, the Yerba Mate industry is a significant economic driver in South America, and innovations in Yerba Mate products, along with growing global demand, are expanding its market reach. This study's findings emphasize the multifaceted value of Yerba Mate, highlighting its health benefits, cultural importance, and economic impact. Sustainable development of the Yerba Mate industry, guided by comprehensive research and ethical and environmental principles, can enhance its global impact while preserving its rich cultural heritage. Keywords Yerba Mate; Phytochemical composition; Health benefits; Cultural significance; Economic impact; Sustainable agriculture; Functional beverage 1 Introduction Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is a plant native to South America, particularly prevalent in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The leaves and stems of this plant are traditionally used to prepare a stimulating beverage known as mate, which is consumed for its numerous health benefits and cultural significance. Yerba Mate is rich in bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, saponins, and xanthines, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering properties (Heck and Mejia, 2007; De Morais et al., 2009; Berté et al., 2011). The infusion made from Yerba Mate leaves is gaining popularity worldwide, not only as a traditional tea but also as an ingredient in various dietary supplements and functional foods (Heck and Mejia, 2007). Yerba Mate has a long-standing cultural and historical significance in South America. Indigenous peoples, such as the Guarani and Tupi, have consumed Yerba Mate for centuries, using it as a social and medicinal beverage (Heck and Mejia, 2007). The traditional method of preparing and drinking mate involves a communal ritual where the beverage is shared among participants, symbolizing friendship and community. This practice has been passed down through generations and remains an integral part of social life in many South American countries. The cultural importance of Yerba Mate extends beyond its social aspects, as it is also revered for its purported health benefits, including its ability to stimulate the central nervous system, protect the liver, and support cardiovascular health (Heck and Mejia, 2007; Pimentel et al., 2013; Fayad et al., 2020).
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