• Journal of Acupuncture Research
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• v.33 no.2
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• pp.135-150
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• 2016

Objectives : The aim of this study is to review the combination effects and adverse effects of Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) on the treatment of obesity. Methods : Four databases were searched, including Pubmed, National assembly library, RISS4u, and NDSL, for studies published before March 31, 2016 using the keywords 'yerba mate', 'Ilex paraguariensis', and those related to 'obesity'. Clinical trials, and both in vivo and in vitro studies were classified according to the following categories: publication year, nationality, types and composition of test compounds, combination effects, adverse effects, and safety. Results : A total of 16 articles (14 clinical trials, one in vivo, one in vitro) were included in the analysis. Combination effects were reported from six YGD (Yerba Mate, Guarana, Damiana, Zotrim), five Meltdown, one Shred-matrix, one DBX (DymaBurn Xtreme), one XSIII research study, and adverse effects were reported from two YGD (Zotrim), four Meltdown, one Shred-matrix and one MetEF research study. YGD and Shred-matrix increased satiety while YGD and MetEF had adverse gastrointestinal effects potentially due to guarana. Meltdown and Shred-matrix increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation and had the adverse effects of increased heart rate and blood pressure due to the thermogenic effect of caffeine and yohimbine. DBX increased resting energy expenditure but no difference was observed in respiratory exchange ratio. XSIII reduced body weight gain and food intake more than each of the extracts did on their own. Conclusion : Taken together, the combination effects and adverse effects differed according to the composition of test compounds and the ratio of ingredients. Multicomponent approaches should be used for treating multifactorial diseases such as obesity. As a general conclusion, there is a place for a combination of herbal components including yerba mate, based on the principle of Kun-Shin-Choa-Sa for the treatment of obesity.