The content of linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid in different types of Yerba Mate, depending on country of origin and the conditions of the infusion

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Yerba Mate (Ilexparaguariensis) is one of the most widely consumed teas in South America. It is becoming more and more popular in North America and Europe. The aim of the study was a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the fatty acids from the omega 6 and omega 3 families in Yerba Mate teas. METHODS: There were two types of infusions - cold and hot (three brews from the same leaves). Yerba Mate was incu bated for 10 min, then 2 mL of the brew was taken for isola tion. Fatty acids were extracted by the Folch method. The resulting fatty acid methyl esters were analyzed using gas chromatography. RESULTS: The analysis of fatty acids in the infusions of Yerba Mate showed a significant amount of linoleic acid (LA) and alpha linolenic acids (ALA). The concentrations of these acids present in fresh infusions were approx. 250 ug/mL for infusion of LA, and 600 ug/mL infusion for ALA. With the subsequent brew using the same leaves the amount of fatty acids decreased significantly (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Drinking Yerba Mate can supply ALA and LA, which are essential in a well-balanced diet. For individuals who regularly consume Yerba Mate, it can be an important source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) supplementation. The most preferred way to brew the tea is cold infusion, which delivers the highest dose of unchanged PUFAs. This method of brewing also reduces the gastrointestinal exposure to high temperature, and thus reduces the risk of cancer incidence.