Can Yerba Maté (Ilex paraguariensis A.-St.-Hil) and Its Constituents Affect Health and Obesity?

Abstract

The present commentary is a short narrative review of the available data concerning the influence of Yerba Maté, its relatives and constituents on health with special attention to its anti-obesity effects and their physiological mechanisms. The possible adverse side-effects of Yerba Maté, form and doses of its consumption are discussed. The available information demonstrates the ability of Yerba Maté and its constituents to prevent and to treat a wide array of disorders including obesity, although the potential of this plant to promote weight loss requires further elucidation.