WELCOME to my page on the various properties and uses of herbs!
This page has been designed with the intention of promoting herbal medicine and potential natural alternatives to pharmaceutical medicine. As well as to make scientific information on natural alternatives more accessible. Plants and plant components listed here can be grown ourselves (Self Empowerment - Sustainability) and often provide effective options without as many side effects.
Tips for growing your own herbs:
When gardening it is always best to seek organic and heirloom seeds, and organic soils/fertilizers (Searls has some reasonably priced Certified Organic gardening products). A single plant can produce many many more seeds so it makes sense to make the smart investment for all your future plant generations from the get go.
In Australia we have some wonderful organic seed banks such as Greenpatch Organic Seeds, Green Harvest, Select Organic, and Happy Valley Seeds.
I myself grow a broad range of herbs/plants organically for human empowerment in the form of tasty non-alcoholic herbal extracts. These are obtainable through the Maleny Co-op, the local Maleny Sunday markets, my online Etsy store, and various other local Sunshine Coast events. I want to share my passion for natural medicine! I love gardening/practical learning/creation and promoting something necessary and pure. To see what herbal extracts I provide please visit Herbal Glycerites.
Some of the below plant materials I also provide in capsule form.
Please feel free to enquire here.
Happy exploration!
CONTENTS:
1. Acai (New section under construction)
2. Brahmi
3. Calendula
4. Cats Claw
5. Chamomile
7. Damiana
8. Echinacea
9. Fennel
10. Ginger (In progress)
11. Ginkgo Biloba
12. Horsetail (New section under construction)
13. Oregano (New section under construction)
14. Papaya Leaf (New section under construction)
15. Rhodiola (New section under construction)
16. Rosemary
17. Stinging Nettle
18. St. Johns Wort (New section under construction)
19. Thyme
20. Triphala (New section under construction)
21. Turmeric (New section under construction)
22. Valerian
23. Wheatgrass (New section under construction)
24. Yerba Mate
Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri)
Antioxidant:
Bacosides, the main active compounds in Bacopa monnieri, have been shown to neutralize free radicals and prevent fat molecules from reacting with free radicals [1].
Successful neuoprotective effects study [2].
Adaptogenic studies: [3] [4] [5] [6] [7].
Anti-Inflammatory studies: [8] [9].
Memory, Processing Information, and Attention:
A 12-week study in 46 healthy adults observed that taking 300 mg of Bacopa monnieri daily significantly improved the speed of processing visual information, learning rate, and memory, compared with the placebo treatment [10].
Another 12-week study in 60 older adults found that taking either 300 mg or 600 mg of Bacopa monnieri extract daily improved memory, attention, and the ability to process information, compared with the placebo treatment [11].
May Help Reduce ADHD Symptoms:
One study in 31 children aged 6–12 years found that taking 225 mg of Bacopa monnieri extract daily for 6 months significantly reduced ADHD symptoms, such as restlessness, poor self-control, inattention, and impulsivity in 85% of the children [12].
Another study in 120 children with ADHD observed that taking an herbal blend that contained 125 mg of Bacopa monnieri improved attention, cognition, and impulse control, compared with the placebo group [13].
May Help Lower Blood Pressure in Animals:
Animal Study [14] [15], Rat Study [16].
Further science backed reading:
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Packed With Antioxidants!
Calendula extract possesses several potent antioxidants, including triterpenes, flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids! [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]
Skin Health[6] [7] [8] [9], Eye Health (wonderful Beta-carotene source, lutein, zeaxanthin and lycopene [10]) [11], Oral Health [12] [13] [14]. Wound Healing [15] [16] [17] [18]. Antifungal and Anti-microbial [19] [20] [21] [22]. Anti-Inflammatory potential [23].
Further science backed reading:
Cats Claw (Uncaria tomentose)
Immune system support (boosts white blood cells) [1] [2] [3]:
A small study in 27 men found that consuming 700 mg of cat’s claw extract for 2 months increased their number of white blood cells, which are involved in combating infections [1].
Another small study in four men given cat’s claw extract for six weeks noted the same results [2].
Cat’s claw seems to work both by boosting your immune response and calming an overactive immune system [1] [3].
Anti-Inflammatory Study: [4],
May Relieve Symptoms of Osteoarthritis: [5] [6] [7] [4],
In an eight-week study, a supplement of cat’s claw and maca root reduced pain and stiffness in people with osteoarthritis. In addition, participants needed pain medication less frequently [6].
May Relieve Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis:
A study in 40 people with rheumatoid arthritis determined that 60 mg of cat’s claw extract per day alongside regular medication resulted in a 29% reduction in the number of painful joints compared to a control group [8].
Further science backed reading:
Chamomile (Matricaria Recutita/Chamomilla Recutita)
May Improve Sleep Quality:
Chamomile contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in your brain that may promote sleepiness and reduce insomnia, or the chronic inability to sleep [1] [2].
In one study, postpartum women who drank chamomile tea for two weeks reported better sleep quality compared to a group that did not drink chamomile tea. They also had fewer symptoms of depression, which is often linked with sleeping problems [3].
Another study found that people who consumed 270 mg of chamomile extract twice daily for 28 days had 1/3 less night time awakening and fell asleep 15 minutes faster than those who did not consume the extract [4].
A single-blind randomized controlled trial was performed with sixty elderly people aged sixty and above. The treatment group received chamomile extract capsules (200mg) twice a day for 28 consecutive days while the control group received wheat flour capsules (200mg) in the same manner.
Using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, sleep quality was assessed immediately before, two weeks after beginning, immediately after the completion, and two weeks after the completion of the intervention. The data were analyzed via the independent-sample t, Chi-square, and Fisher's exact tests as well as the repeated measures analysis of variance.
The results showed significant improvement of sleep quality among people taking the Chamomile extracts compared to those taking the placebo [5].
Wound Healing [6]:
The efficacy of topical use of chamomile to enhance wound healing was evaluated in a double-blind trial on 14 patients who underwent dermabrasion of tattoos. The effects on drying and epithelialization were observed, and chamomile was judged to be statistically efficacious in producing wound drying and in speeding epithelialization [7].
Antimicrobial activity of the extract against various microorganisms was also assessed. The test group, on day 15, exhibited a greater reduction in the wound area when compared with the controls (61 % versus 48%), faster epithelialization and a significantly higher wound-breaking strength. In addition, wet and dry granulation tissue weight and hydroxyproline content were significantly higher. The increased rate of wound contraction, together with the increased wound-breaking strength, hydroxyproline content and histological observations, support the use of M. recutita in wound management [8].
Recent studies suggest that chamomile caused complete wound healing faster than corticosteroids [9].
May Relieve Menstrual Pain [10],
Both Chamomile extract, and Mefenamic acid (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat mild to moderate pain and menstrual pain [11]) were compared for their effect on the severity of symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. The result showed that consumption of Chamomile is more effective than MA in reducing such symptoms [12].
Other Uses - Digestion Aid [1], Anti-Inflammatory (Apigenin content)[10], Antioxidant, Anxiety Reduction, Immune Health.
Soothing sore throats, lowering blood sugar.
Abundant in flavones; a class of antioxidants (help lower blood pressure and cholesterol).
Skin Care – Topical application for skin irritations, blemishes, wrinkles.
Further science backed reading:
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum Verum)
Loaded with Antioxidants:
Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols [1] [2] [3].
In a study that compared the antioxidant activity of 26 spices, cinnamon wound up as the clear winner, it even outranked “superfoods” like garlic and oregano [4].
Cinnamon is so powerful that it can be used as a natural food preservative [5].
Potent Anti-Inflammatory:
Studies show that cinnamon and its antioxidants have potent anti-inflammatory properties [6] [7].
May Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease:
In people with type 2 diabetes, 1 gram or about half a teaspoon of cinnamon per day has been shown to have beneficial effects on blood markers. It reduces levels of total cholesterol, “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while “good” HDL cholesterol remains stable [8].
Furthermore, a more recent systematic review including more up to date randomized controlled trials (RCTs) concluded that a cinnamon dose of just 120 mg per day can have these effects. In this study, cinnamon also increased “good” HDL cholesterol levels [9].
Cinnamon Can Improve Insulin Sensitivity:
Insulin resistance is a hallmark of serious conditions like metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. It has been shown that cinnamon can dramatically reduce insulin resistance [10] [11].
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels (Anti-Diabetic Affect):
Cinnamon can lower blood sugar by several mechanisms. One of these mechanisms is achieved by decreasing the amount of glucose that enters your bloodstream after a meal. It does this by interfering with numerous digestive enzymes, slowing the breakdown of carbohydrates in your digestive tract [12] [13]. Secondly, a compound in cinnamon can act on cells by mimicking insulin [14] [15]. Though it acts much slower than insulin, the compound greatly improves glucose uptake by your cells.
Numerous human studies have confirmed the anti-diabetic effects of cinnamon, showing that it can lower fasting blood sugar levels by 10–29% [16] [17] [18].
May Have Beneficial Effects on Neurodegenerative Diseases:
Two compounds found in cinnamon appear to inhibit the buildup of a protein called tau in the brain, which is one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease [19] [20] [21].
Antimicrobial Effects:
Cinnamaldehyde is one of the main active components of cinnamon which may help fight various kinds of infection.
In several studies Cinnamon oil has been shown to effectively treat respiratory tract infections caused by fungi, as well as inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria, including Listeria and Salmonella [22] [23].
Several case studies have also shown that the antimicrobial effects of cinnamon may also help prevent tooth decay and reduce bad breath [24] [25].
Women's Health/Wellbeing
Cinnamon vs Ibuprofen: "Cinnamon compared with placebo significantly reduced the severity and duration of pain during menstruation, but this effect was lower compared with Ibuprofen. Cinnamon can be regarded as a safe and effective treatment for primary dysmenorrhea. More researches are recommended to study the efficacy of Cinnamon on reducing menstrual bleeding." [26]
Cinnamon vs Primary dysmenorrhea: Research has suggested that “cinnamon has a significant effect on reduction of pain, menstrual bleeding, nausea and vomiting due to primary dysmenorrhea, and with respect to no reported side effects, cinnamon can be regarded as a safe and effective treatment for primary dysmenorrheal.” [27]
Further science backed reading:
Damiana (Turnera diffusa)
Aphrodisiac [1] [2], Anti-Aromatase [3], Antioxidant [4], Adaptogen [2], Metabolism Booster [5], Anti-Inflammatory [6].
Active components that have been identified in damiana herb include:
Flavonoids (22 different compounds), maltol glucoside, phenolics, cyanogenic glycosides (7 different compounds), monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, the polyterpene ficaprenol-11, fatty acids, and caffeine have been found in the genus Turnera [7].
"Damiana has been shown to act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, expectorant (it helps to open up the airways and stop coughs) and immunomodulator. There’s evidence that T. diffusa can be used to treat otitis (ear aches/ear infections) and nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys).
Pinocembrin is one of the primary flavonoids isolated from damiana leaf. Pinocembrin activities have been well-researched and include antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer activities. [8] For centuries, plants containing pinocembrain and flavanoids (both found in damiana) have been used to fight bacterial infections of the respiratory, reproductive and digestive systems — including those caused by bacterial strains such as gonorrhoeae, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, B. subtilis, S. aureus, S. lentus and K.pneumoniae." - [Draxe]
Further science backed reading:
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea pallid)
Such as flavonoids, cichoric acid and rosmarinic acid Alkamides, which can renew worn-out antioxidants and help antioxidants better reach molecules that are prone to oxidative stress.
Immune System Booster (See: [3] [4] [5]),
A review of 14 studies found that taking Echinacea may lower the risk of developing colds by more than 50% and shorten the duration of colds by one and a half days [6].
Skin Treatment:
- Skin care products containing echinacea extract were found to improve skin hydration and reduce wrinkles [11],
- A cream containing Echinacea purpurea extract was shown to improve eczema symptoms and help repair the skin’s thin, protective outer layer [10].
Further science backed reading:
Fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare)
Nutrient Dense:
Essential oil of the plant has been shown to contain more than 87 volatile compounds, including the polyphenol antioxidants rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and apigenin. Over 28 compounds have been identified in fennel seeds, including anethole, fenchone, methyl chavicol, and limonene [1].
Animal and test-tube studies note that the organic compound anethole, which is found in Fennel, has anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties [2]. Another plant compound (or phytochemical) found in Fennel called limonene helps combat free radicals and has been shown to protect rat cells from damage caused by certain chronic diseases [3] [4].
High in Antioxidants [1] [5], Anti-Inflammatory Potential [6], Antibacterial [5], Anti-Cancer (test tube and animal studies)[5] [7] [8], Digestive Support [9] [10], Potential Appetite Suppressant [11].
May assist Eyes [12], Memory [13], and in relieving Menopausal symptoms [14].
Precautions: Strong estrogenic properties; may be unsafe for pregnant women (in high doses).
Further science backed reading:
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
⫸ Effective Natural Ibuprofen Alternative: ([1] [2] [3] [4])
In a 2009 study, 150 women were instructed to take either ginger or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for the first 3 days of their menstrual period.
The three groups received four daily doses of either ginger powder (250 mg), mefenamic acid (250 mg), or ibuprofen (400 mg). Ginger managed to reduce pain as effectively as the two NSAIDs [1].
More recent studies have also concluded that Ginger is more effective than a placebo and equally as effective as drugs such as mefenamic acid and acetaminophen/caffeine/ibuprofen (Novafen) [2] [3] [4].
⫸ Powerful Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects [5] [6].
⫸ Can Treat Many Forms of Nausea Including Morning Sickness:
Ginger has been shown to be highly effective at treating nausea in a comprehensive systematic review of 109 randomized controlled trials [7].
It may help relieve nausea and vomiting for people undergoing certain types of surgery. Ginger may also help chemotherapy-related nausea, but larger human studies are needed [8] [9] [10] [11].
Ginger appears to be the most effective when it comes to pregnancy-related nausea, such as morning sickness.
According to a review of 12 studies that included a total of1,278 pregnant women, 1.1–1.5 grams of ginger can significantly reduce symptoms of nausea.
This review concluded however that ginger had no effect on vomiting episodes [12].
Safety - It has been recommended that pregnant women who are close to labor or who’ve had miscarriages avoid Ginger. [13]
⫸ Ginger May Drastically Lower Blood Sugars and Improve Heart Disease Risk Factors (potential anti-diabetic properties):
In a 2015 study of 41 participants with type 2 diabetes, 2 grams of ginger powder per day lowered fasting blood sugar by 12% [14].
It also dramatically improved hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), a marker for long-term blood sugar levels. HbA1c was reduced by 10% over a period of 12 weeks.
There was also a 28% reduction in the ApolipoproteinB/Apolipoprotein A-I ratio and a 23% reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA), which is a byproduct of oxidative stress. A high ApoB/ApoA-I ratio and high MDA levels are both major risk factors of heart disease [14].
A more recent 2019 literature review also concluded that ginger significantly reduced HbA1c in people with type 2 diabetes. However, their own study found that ginger had no effect on fasting blood sugar [15].
(More uses yet to be added)
Treat Chronic Indigestion
Cholesterol
Brain Function
Infection Fighting
Further science backed reading:
Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)
Up to 25% of its dry weight is Silica! [1] [2]
Silica, improves the formation, density, and consistency of bone and cartilage tissue by enhancing collagen synthesis and improving the absorption and use of calcium [3] [4 - PDF link].
Further science backed reading:
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officianalis)
Cognitive Stimulant: (Orally Taken [1] [2]) (Topical Application [3]) (Breathing the Diffused Oil [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9]) (Other [10] [11]-PDF),
Antioxidants [12] [13] [14] [15] [16], Antimicrobial [17] [18] [19], Hair Growth Stimulation (Topical [20] [21] [22] [23]),
Natural Insect Repellent (Mosquitos [24] [25]) (Spider mites [26], Ticks [27]),
When Rosemary oil was measured against 11 other essential oils, it had the longest repellent effect on Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which spread the Zika virus. A dilution of 12.5% rosemary oil repelled 100% of the mosquitoes for 90 minutes [24] [25].
Contains Borneol [28] a bicyclic organic compound and a terpene derivative found in the essential oils of the plant. Also a natural insect repellant.
Mild Pain Relief: [29] [30] [31]
Improve Circulation (Topical application): [32] [33]
Joint Inflammation Reduction (Topical application): [34] [35] [36] [37]
Rosemary extract may improve mood by promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria and reducing inflammation in the hippocampus, the part of your brain associated with emotions, learning, and memories [38].
Neuroprotective [39] [40] [41]:
The Carnosic acid in Rosemary has neuroprotective properties. A 2016 study suggests that it helps to reduce oxidative stress and enhances the synthesis of nerve growth factor which is vital for nerve tissue. [42]
Further science backed reading:
Organic Facts- Rosemary Oil for Hair
Stinging Nettle (Urtica Dioica)
Nutrient Dense; leaves/roots contain vitamins A, C, and K as well as B vitamins. The leaves are rich sources of terpenoids, carotenoids, fatty acids, essential amino acids, chlorophyll, and minerals. They also contain important polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties. [1]
Possibly Anti-Inflammatory [2] [3] [4] (Other Studies [5] [6]), Antioxidant [7] [8], Diuretic [9] (animal studies [10] [11]), May Treat Hay Fever [12] [13] [14], May Lower Blood Pressure [15] [16] [17].
Caution: Pregnant women should avoid consuming stinging nettle because it may trigger uterine contractions, which can raise the risk of a miscarriage.
Speak to your doctor before consuming stinging nettle if you’re taking one of the following:
Blood thinners, Blood pressure medication, Diuretics, Diabetes medication, Lithium.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Respiratory Agent/Expectorant, Antioxidant, Immune system, Antifungal & Antibacterial (thymol).
Antifungal & Antibacterial:
Most active ingredient found in thyme is thymol. This organic compound has a wide range of effects on the body, including its ability to prevent fungal and viral infections, thereby reducing strain on the immune system. [1]
Immunity:
The high levels of vitamin C found in this herb make it a natural immune system booster. Its also a good source of vitamin A, copper, fiber, iron, and manganese. [2]
According to a 2018 report published in the Phytotherapy Research, thymol is an essential component in the thyme essential oil that is known as an immunomodulator (a substance that affects the functioning of the immune system). [3]
Cancer Fighting:
Active constituents in this herb may be able to fight against development of tumors that can become cancerous. More specifically, carvacrol is a major component of the essential oil that has displayed anti-tumor properties, making this beneficial plant a potential cancer-fighting food.
One recent study published in Anti-Cancer Drugs found that carvacrol inhibited the proliferation and migration of the two colon cancer cell lines. [4]
Antioxidant
Thyme has one of the highest antioxidant concentrations in any herb.
The phenolic antioxidants found in thyme, including lutein, zeaxanthin, and thymonin contribute to neutralizing and eliminating free radicals throughout the body, further inhibiting oxidative stress. [5]
Respiratory Agent:
If you are suffering from bronchitis, chronic asthma, congestion, colds, flu, blocked sinuses, or seasonal allergies, thyme can act as an expectorant and an anti-inflammatory substance by helping to eliminate phlegm and mucus from the respiratory tracts, easing inflammation to help breathe, and aiding in preventing microbial development that can lead to serious respiratory illness.
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a combination of thyme and ivy leaves helped to alleviate coughing and other symptoms of acute bronchitis. The group treated with this combination had a 50 percent reduction in coughing fits that was achieved two days earlier than the placebo group. In addition, the same group reported no more adverse events than the placebo group and no serious adverse events at all. [6]
Further science backed reading:
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
Natural Sedative [1] [2] [3] [4], Anxiety and Stress Aid [2] [5],
May reduce Menopausal [6] [4] and PMS Symptoms [7] [8], Improve symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome [9], and OCD [10].
Research suggests that taking Valerian root may reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, as well as improve sleep quality and quantity [1].
A 2020 review that included 60 studies concluded that Valerian could be a safe and effective treatment to promote sleep and prevent associated disorders [1].
Certain compounds in Valerian, called Valerenic Acid and Valerenol, can act on GABA receptors in the body.
GABA is a chemical messenger that helps regulate nerve impulses in your nervous system. It is one of the main neurotransmitters responsible for sleep regulation, and increasing the amount of GABA available in your body has sedative effects [11].
Valerenic acid and Valerenol can modulate GABA receptors and increase the amount of GABA available in the central nervous system. Furthermore, research has shown that Valerenic Acid inhibits an enzyme that destroys GABA [12].
Compounds in Valerian may also interact with receptors for Serotonin and Adenosine, chemicals that play important roles in the regulation of sleep and mood [1].
Additionally, preliminary research suggests that Valepotriates — the compounds that give Valerian its characteristic pungent smell — may have anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects in the body [1].
Safety:
Valerian is likely safe when used short-term. Valerian has been used safely in doses of 300-600 mg daily for up to 6 weeks. [13]
Further science backed reading:
Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis)
Energy Boost (Caffeine):
At 85 mg of caffeine per cup, Yerba Mate contains less caffeine than coffee (163mg/pc) but more than a cup of tea (1).
Caffeine is also known to improve muscle contractions, reduce fatigue, and improve sports performance by up to 5% (2), (3), (4), (5).
In one study, those given one 1-gram capsule of ground Yerba Mate leaves right before exercise burned 24% more fat during moderate-intensity exercise (6).
Mental Focus (Caffeine):
Caffeine can affect the levels of certain signaling molecules in your brain, making it particularly beneficial for your mental focus (7), (8).
Several human studies observed improved alertness, short-term recall and reaction time in participants who consumed a single dose containing 37.5–450 mg of caffeine (9).
Rich in Antioxidants and Nutrients (10):
Xanthines: These compounds act as stimulants. They include caffeine and theobromine, which are also found in tea, coffee, and chocolate.
Caffeoylderivatives: These compounds are the main health-promoting antioxidants in the tea.
Saponins: These bitter compounds have certain anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering properties.
Polyphenols: This is a large group of antioxidants, linked to a reduced risk of many diseases.
Antioxidant power of Yerba Mate tea slightly higher than that of green tea (11).
Yerba Mate may contain seven out of nine essential amino acids, in addition to nearly every vitamin and mineral your body needs (in very small amounts).
Other -
Weight loss:
Human research suggests that Yerba Mate can also increase the amount of stored fat that’s burned for energy (6), (12).
In a 12-week study in overweight people, those given 3 grams of Yerba Mate powder per day lost an average of 1.5 pounds (0.7 kg). They also reduced their waist-to-hip ratio by 2%, which indicates lost belly fat (13), (14).
In comparison, the participants given a placebo gained an average of 6.2pounds (2.8 kg) and increased their waist-to-hip ratio by 1% over the same 12-week period (14).
May also have anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic, and anti-fungal properties:
One test-tube study found that a high dose of Yerba Mate extract deactivated E.coli, a bacteria that causes food poisoning symptoms like stomach cramps and diarrhea (15), (16).
Compounds in Yerba Mate may also prevent the growth of Malassezia furfur, a fungus responsible for scaly skin, dandruff, and certain skin rashes (17).
Research suggests that compounds in it may provide some protection against intestinal parasites (10).
May Reduce cholesterol levels:
In one 40-day study, participants who drank 11 ounces (330 ml) of Yerba Mate each day lowered their “bad” LDL cholesterol levels by 8.6–13.1% (18).
Safety Warnings:
- Contains Caffeine
Medication Interactions:
Studies show that certain compounds in Yerba Mate have monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) activity. MAOIs are often prescribed as medications for depression and Parkinson’s disease.
Therefore, individuals taking MAOI drugs should use Yerba Mate with caution.
Further science backed reading: