Nature’s Superfood Green Tea

Green Tea

Green tea extract has been used medicinally for centuries in India and China. A number of beneficial health effects are related to regular consumption of green tea and dried/powdered extracts of green tea that are available in some dietary supplements. Green tea is prepared by picking, lightly steaming and allowing the leaves to dry. The active components in green tea are a family of polyphenols (catechins) and flavonols, which possess potent antioxidant activity. Several catechins are present in major quantities; epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG makes up around 10 to 50 percent of the total catechin content and appears to be the most powerful of all the catechins, with antioxidant activity about 25 to 100 times more powerful than vitamins C and E. Green tea extract is reported to have positive effects including cardiovascular system support.*  Green tea contains a substantial amount of antioxidants, including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which help to provide significant immunoprotective qualities.  Green tea’s polyphenolic antioxidants support cardiovascular health, reduce free radical damage to cells, and supports the normal oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Aside from the clear benefits of green tea as an antioxidant, recent studies have suggested green tea may aid in promoting weight control. ‡This extract is decaffeinated.