EPA-0330 – Ilex Paraguariensis use and Affective Symptoms: ¿is There an Association?

Abstract

Introduction:

Yerba mate(ilex paraguariensis(IP))is a plant widely consumed in South America as a hot(mate)or cold infusion beverage(tereré). During the last years, there was an increasing interest in its health properties supported by a growing scientific evidence. These studies showed that the IP could have hepatoprotective, hypocholesterolemic, diuretic and antioxidant properties. Furthermore it showed to be a nervous system stimulant and protectant(1). Recently, there were reports about its invitro potential to inhibit the Monoaminooxidase(MAO) which can have effects on mood state(2).

Objectives:

Exploratory research to study possible associations between the use of IP and mood symptoms.

Method:

An observational cross-sectional study was conducted by an online survey in paraguayan population through an invitation. The survey collected data information about sociodemographics conditions, substance use(including IP), Spielberg's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and PHQ-9 scale for depressive symptoms. A descriptive and multiple lineal regression analysis of the data was performed.

Results:

300 subjects accepted the invitation and information was obtained of about 76% of them. The sample mean age(SD) was 27(7,4), most of them females(61,6%)and with universitary studies(66,1%). The 86% of the sample consumed IP regularly and 56% daily. Only a 3,5% reported previous psychiatric history. A significant relationship was observed between the use of IP and daily alcohol(p=0,022). No relevant associations were found concerning IP use and anxiety trait-state or depressive symptoms after adjusting for the use of coffee, tea, alcohol and others sociodemographic variables.

Conclusions:

No significant associations were found in the sample studied between the use of IP and state-trait anxiety or depressive symptoms. Although, given the frequency of its use, the association with alcohol consumption and its potential clinical applications, more and bigger studies might be necessary.