Condition
Treatment Support
antitumor
Application
tea, capsule, tablet
Green Tea
(Camellia sinensis)
Also know as Chinese tea
Botanical Information
A shrub with elliptical glossy green leaves; widely cultivated in China and other parts of Asia.
Working with Green Tea
Part(s) Used
Leaf
Herb Forms
Tea bag, capsule, tablet, bulk herb
Christopher Hobbs:
“Green tea is beneficial for the cardiovascular system, lowering cholesterol and preventing platelet clumping. It has antibacterial and antioxidant properties. It also confers cancer prevention. It is used as a mouthwash to prevent plaque formation and tooth-decay. Green tea is antiviral and ulcer protective, as well as having the ability to lower blood glucose. The tea is drunk in many countries to help relieve diarrhea, reduce pain, and invigorate the mind and nervous system. It is the second most popular drink in the world, after water.
Green Tea has a taste of ASTRINGENT, AROMATIC and a temperature of WARM.”
Green tea, derived from the leaves of Camellia sinensis, has a rich history of use, particularly in Asia, dating back over a thousand years. Traditionally, it was consumed as a beverage and for its purported health benefits, including improving digestion, promoting longevity, and enhancing cognitive function. In modern times, herbalists and naturopaths recommend green tea for a variety of uses, such as antioxidant support, cardiovascular health, weight management, and mental alertness. Green tea is also used topically in skincare for its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Green tea is rich in polyphenols, particularly catechins, with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) being the most active compound. These polyphenols are potent antioxidants and have been shown to influence cellular signaling pathways, reduce oxidative stress, and inhibit cellular damage. Green tea also contains caffeine and L-theanine, which contribute to its cognitive and mood-enhancing effects. Pharmacologically, green tea’s catechins exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential anti-carcinogenic properties.
Typical dosages range from 100–400 mg of EGCG daily, depending on the preparation and purpose. Supplements with concentrated extracts should be used cautiously and with professional guidance.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials have investigated green tea’s effects on weight loss, cardiovascular health, and cancer prevention. Results show moderate evidence for weight loss and improved lipid profiles, though findings are mixed and often depend on the dosage and individual factors. Some studies indicate potential benefits for blood pressure, cognitive health, and glycemic control, but more large-scale, controlled trials are needed to confirm efficacy.
Summary
Green tea has a long-standing reputation for health benefits, with modern research supporting some of its traditional uses. Its rich profile of catechins and antioxidants underpins many of its therapeutic effects, though further research is needed to solidify its role in various clinical applications.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Green tea is generally safe when consumed in moderate amounts, though high doses can lead to adverse effects such as liver toxicity, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues due to caffeine and catechin content.
Not recommended for excessive or long-term use or for people who experience heart palpitations. If drinking the tea causes you to experience insomnia or anxiety, you can purchase both decaffeinated tea and standardized extract.
Conditions treated with Green Tea
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
cholesterol lowering
Application
tea, capsule, tablet
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
