MDLinxYerba Mate Tea May Be the New Coffee, But You and Your Patients Should Know About the Possible Risks

Yerba Mate Tea Offers a Range of Health Benefits, but Moderation is Key

Yerba mate tea, a traditional South American beverage, has recently gained global attention for its numerous health benefits. Although it offers a plethora of nutrients and therapeutic properties, healthcare professionals caution that excessive consumption could pose risks.

HCN Medical Memo
Yerba mate tea presents an interesting case of a natural remedy with both pros and cons. Although it can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet, offering a variety of nutrients and health benefits, caution is advised due to potential risks like PAH exposure and high caffeine content. As with many natural remedies, moderation is key, and it’s crucial to consider individual health conditions and sensitivities when recommending yerba mate tea to patients.

Key Points

• Yerba mate tea is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins C, B1, B2, B6, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and trace iron.
• The tea has cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and neurological benefits, according to Katie Stage, ND, RH (AGH), FABN, a naturopathic physician.
• Consuming yerba mate in moderation is generally safe for most adults, but high doses can expose individuals to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been linked to toxicity.

One cup of yerba mate tea contains about 71.8 milligrams of caffeine, nearly as much as a cup of cappuccino coffee, which has approximately 86.8 mg of caffeine.

Additional Points

• Yerba mate tea has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and may prevent infections in the large intestine.
• Some studies have linked yerba mate to various types of cancer, although the evidence is inconclusive.
• Cold brew yerba mate is recommended to minimize the risks of PAH exposure.
• The tea is not advised for pregnant individuals or those sensitive to caffeine.