Ilex paraguariensis
Ilex paraguariensis
Ilex paraguariensis, commonly known as yerba mate, is a traditional South American plant used in various cultural practices. Traditionally, it has been consumed for its stimulant properties and social significance among indigenous communities of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Scientific evidence suggests that yerba mate may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which could be relevant to the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but these findings are preliminary and require further investigation. The plant's phytochemical composition has shown potential in improving dye adsorption capacity, particularly with AYMs (alkaloids, caffeine, and polyphenols) exhibiting higher capacities compared to raw yerba mate. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been identified for this traditional remedy.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Four distinct maternal lineages were discerned within southern South American Ilex taxa, with Ilex paraguariensis showing an ancestral relationship to northern American plastid lineages.
- Yerba mate and its constituents show preliminary indications of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects with potential relevance to RA pathophysiology, but conclusions remain tentative.
- The study reviews Yerba Mate's phytochemical composition, health benefits, safety concerns, and food industry applications, highlighting its potential as a functional ingredient.
- AYMs showed improved dye adsorption capacity compared to raw YMs, with maximum capacities of 62.81 mg·g-1 for RB5 and 61.78 mg·g-1 for RY84.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ilex paraguariensis?
Ilex paraguariensis (Ilex paraguariensis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Ilex paraguariensis?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Ilex paraguariensis; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Four distinct maternal lineages were discerned within southern South American Ilex taxa, with Ilex paraguariensis showing an ancestral relationship to northern American plastid lineages.
How strong is the evidence for Ilex paraguariensis?
The strongest finding for Ilex paraguariensis carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Ilex paraguariensis safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Ilex paraguariensis in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Ilex paraguariensis interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Ilex paraguariensis in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Ilex paraguariensis a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) and Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review of Mechanistic and Clinical Evidence. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Yerba mate tea: a critical review on its phytochemicals, health benefits, safety, and food industry applications. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The Use of Aminated Yerba Mate Biomass for the Removal of Anionic Dyes from Aqueous Solutions. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Tracing the Maternal Lineages and Historical Biogeography of southern South American Hollies (Ilex, Aquifoliaceae). literature abstract metadata