Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is much more than a plant used for traditional chimarrão or tereré. Full of bioactive compounds, it offers a wide range of health benefits and enormous industrial potential. At Ervais do Futuro, we value every aspect of this ancient plant, investing in research and innovation to make the most of its properties.
What are Bioactive Compounds?
Bioactive compounds are substances present in foods that, in addition to their nutritional functions, have beneficial effects on health. In yerba mate, these compounds include a variety of alkaloids, polyphenols and saponins, which together contribute to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and stimulating properties of this plant.
Main Bioactive Compounds of Yerba Mate
-Caffeine: Known for its stimulating effect, the caffeine present in yerba mate can increase energy and improve concentration. Different yerba mate clones can vary significantly in caffeine content, allowing the production of beverages ranging from decaffeinated to high levels of this compound.
-Theobromine: Similar to caffeine, theobromine has a milder and longer-lasting stimulating effect. It is also known for its diuretic and muscle relaxation properties.
-Saponins: These compounds can improve digestion and have anti-inflammatory effects, reduce the accumulation of triglycerides and have possible anti-obesity activity, in addition to being natural antibacterials. Furthermore, studies indicate the effect of yerba mate saponins inhibiting the in vitro cell proliferation of tumor cells.
-Polyphenols: Yerba mate is rich in many polyphenols, such as mono- and dicaffeoylquinic acids, which have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to fight free radicals and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
-Vitamins and Minerals: Yerba mate contains vitamins C, E, and complex B, as well as minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and manganese, which are essential for maintaining health.
Health Benefits
The bioactive compounds in yerba mate offer a wide range of health benefits:
-Stimulating Effect: The combination of caffeine and theobromine can improve focus and energy, as well as being allies in physical activities.
-Antioxidant Properties: several compounds present in yerba mate help fight free radicals, protecting cells and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, in addition to being important molecules in the fight against aging.
-Anti-inflammatory action: Saponins and polyphenols can help reduce inflammation in the body and promote general health.
-Digestive Health: Saponins improve digestion and help regulate cholesterol, promoting a healthy digestive system.
-Allies in weight loss: Yerba mate can help with weight loss by increasing metabolism and fat burning.
Industrial Potential of Bioactive Compounds
At Ervais do Futuro, we recognize the potential of yerba mate’s bioactive compounds for various industrial sectors:
-Food and Drinks: Yerba mate can be used in teas, energy drinks, dietary supplements and incorporated into foods, offering health benefits in a natural and effective way.
-Cosmetics: The antioxidants present in yerba mate are highly valued in cosmetic products, helping to fight signs of aging and protect the skin against environmental damage. There are even studies that indicate that yerba mate has a protective effect against ultraviolet rays and can be incorporated into sunscreen formulations.
-Pharmaceutical: The bioactive compounds present in yerba mate have several pharmaceutical applications; Here, we highlight the analgesic, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. Although studies highlight its potential use, more in vivo studies are needed.
Commitment to Research and Innovation
Our clonal tests allow the selection of plants with specific profiles of bioactive compounds, ensuring quality and effectiveness in all applications. Furthermore, our crops are managed to obtain raw materials with higher levels of these compounds, increasing their industrial yield. Here, we adapt the raw material and processing with your industry in mind.
The bioactive compounds in yerba mate offer a wide range of health benefits and enormous industrial potential. At Ervais do Futuro, we are committed to innovation and excellence, fully exploiting the properties of this incredible plant to offer high quality products and promote sustainability. Follow our blog and social media for more information about our projects and innovations.
References:
Chaicouski, A.; Lazzarotto, M. Applicability of yerba-mate (Ilex paraguariensis) in different foods. Evidência, v. 21, n. 1, 2021. https://doi.org/10.18593/eba.26130
Clemente, P.A. et al. Technological prospection and scientific innovation of Ilex paraguariensis Saint-Hilaire in the wound healing process. Brazilian Archives of Biology and Technology, 67, 2024. https://www.scielo.br/j/babt/a/rR4Yx33XmCT3BBzq4fFL3HR/
Paluch, E. et al. Composition and antimicrobial activity of Ilex leaves water extracts. Molecules, v. 26, n. 24, p. 1–35, 2021. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26247442
Puangpraphant, S.; Berhow, M. A.; De Mejia, E. G. Mate (Ilex paraguariensis St. Hilaire) saponins induce caspase-3-dependent apoptosis in human colon cancer cells in vitro. Food Chemistry, v. 125, n. 4, p. 1171–1178, 2011. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2010.10.023
Puangpraphant, S.; De Mejia, E. G. Saponins in yerba mate tea (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil) and quercetin synergistically inhibit iNOS and COX-2 in lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophages through NFκB pathways. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, v. 57, n. 19, p. 8873–8883, 2009. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf902255h
Ribeiro, J.A. et al. Photoprotector effect of emulsions with yerba-mate (Ilex paraguariensis) extract. Scientia Pharmaceutica, v. 91, n. 2, 2023. https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm91020022
Cardozo Junior, E.L.; Morand, C. Interest of mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil.) as a new natural functional food to preserve human cardiovascular health – A review. Journal of Functional Foods, v. 21, 2016. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2015.12.010
