Could yerba mate be a superfood?

The Guarani from South America discovered the powerful virtues of yerba mate -which they worshiped as a gift from the gods- and drank it to heal mind and body for thousands of years. Today, in a completely different society, perhaps with new variations and more sophisticated tools; the consumption of yerba mate is expanding more and more and could become the new trendy ‘superfood’ worldwide.

What is ‘superfood’?

A food is considered ‘superfood’ if it meets certain criteria: 

1. It has a powerful effect on health;
2. It’s loaded with nutrients and enzymes;
3. It constitutes a rich source of fiber, vitamins and minerals;
4. It offers many phytonutrients and phytochemicals to prevent cell deterioration as antioxidants; detoxifiers; phytoestrogens to regulate hormones naturally; and cell regulators that inhibit the growth of malignant cells.

By introducing a superfood with these benefits in your daily diet, you strengthen your immune system and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, heart conditions and other health disorders.

Could yerba mate be considered a superfood?

The tea made with yerba mate is considered one of the best and healthiest drinks in the world. Its great antioxidant power protects the body’s cells, favoring all endogenous processes and offering the following benefits:

• Great properties. Yerba mate improves the immune system, prevents cardiovascular diseases, helps slow aging and cell degeneration, increases good cholesterol, keeps the digestive tract healthy and eliminates the cells that cause colon cancer… among many other properties!
• Cholesterol control.Yerba mate is a fabulous antioxidant that prevents cholesterol and fat from accumulating in the arteries, helps in lowering the total level of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and can increase the amount of “good” cholesterol, thus reducing the risk of heart attacks.
• Source of vitamin B. Yerba mate contains a high amount of B-complex vitamins, essential for the optimal functioning of DNA, cell renewal and processing of proteins and fat.
• Source of potassium. Yerba mate contains potassium, excellent for heart function; as well as other minerals and nutrients that prevent cellular oxidation and damage.

• Double effect: stimulating / relaxing. The caffeine, theobromine and theophylline contained in yerba mate stimulate the central nervous system and provide a powerful restorative and energizing effect, both in the mind and in the body.
• Enhancement of cognitive functions. Yerba mate increases attention, focus and concentration. It can improve brain power in the short term.
• Neuroprotective effect. Yerba mate contains substances that protect neurons more effectively than other known neuroprotectors. Some active elements in its composition could even prevent Parkinson’s disease.
• Detoxifying effect. Yerba mate tea has a diuretic effect and prevents water retention in body tissues, favoring kidney function. 
• Anti-inflammatory effect. Yerba mate favors muscle recovery after high-impact physical exercise as well as rehabilitation after an injured muscle. 
• Moisturizing and nourishing properties. Yerba mate is a great ally for the beauty routine. It promotes a healthy, smooth skin and helps to strengthen the hair follicles, stimulating the growth of healthy and voluminous hair.
• Positive effect on emotional health. By providing energy, yerba mate fights depression in a natural way, while stimulating rest and a good night’s sleep. Also, because of its special preparation and the ritual associated with sharing yerba mate, it comes with a positive feel-good factor.