[Mineral elements in mate herb (Ilex paraguariensis St. H.)]

The importance of the research works on mate rests on the fact that this is greatly consumed in many South American countries. Our interest in this subject has increased because, in Europe, it use as an infusion seems to be increasing. The Na, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn contents were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry techniques. Prior to this, samples were incinerated and dissolved in an acid mixture (HCl/HNO3). Results apparently show a high content of mineral elements, especially K. Mg and Mn, in mate, findings which we consider to be of great relevance.