LC/MS characterization of phenolic constituents of mate (Ilex paraguariensis, St. Hil.) and its antioxidant activity compared to commonly consumed beverages

Mate is a tea-like beverage widely consumed in South America, prepared from the dried leaves of Ilex paraguariensis, St Hil. The total polyphenols (PP) and antioxidant activity of mate infusions and acid–methanol/acetone extracts were determined in three commercial brands, and compared to commonly consumed beverages like green and black teas, red, rosé and white wines, and orange juice. Mate had a PP content comparable to tea and orange juice, and, when normalized for the PP content of beverages, mate had an antioxidant activity slightly higher than wines, orange juice and black tea, but lower than green tea. LC/MS analysis of mate extracts showed that caffeoylquinic and dicaffeoylquinic acid isomers were the major components of the phenolic fraction of mate. Mixed mono-, di- and tri-esters of quinic acid and other hydroxycinnamates were also detected. Several quercetin and kaempferol glycosides were identified. Consumption of mate infusions would significantly contribute to the overall antioxidant intake, providing high amounts of caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, with biological effects potentially beneficial for human health.