Camellia sinensis

Description: Green tea is derived from the dried leaves of Camellia sinensis, a tea plant. Green tea and black tea are essentially the same. The only difference is that black tea is oxidized green tea. This extract is potent in bioflavonoids in the form of polyphenols. These ring-like structures are responsible for both taste and biological activity. Green tea extract is 200 times more powerful than vitamin E in capturing free radicals due to its phenol (a benzene ring with an alcohol molecule attached) groups.

Parts Used: Leaf

Common Use: The main ingredient is Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), which protects against infection of the digestive and respriatory systems. Green tea extract is known best for fighting free radicals that attack lipids in the brain. It also reduces high blood pressure by supressing angiotensin I converting enzyme.

Origin: China and Japan

Active Substances: Catechins (Epigallacatechin gallate)

Standard: 50% catechins (polyphenols)

Pharmacology:

Active Properties:

Directions For Use:250-500mg daily. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Processing:

Bio-Enhancing:The bio-enhancing agents are vitamin E, vitamin C, malic, and tartaric acids.

Toxicity, Cautions, Contra-Indications:No matter the dosage, Green tea extract is non-toxic. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Scientific References:Balch, J. and Balch, P., (1997) Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Garden City Park, New York: Avery Publishing Group. Castleman, M., (1991) The Healing Herbs. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale Press. Chopra, D., (1993) Alternative Medicine. Fife, Washington: Future Medicine Publishing, Inc. Flynn, R. and Roest, M., (1995) Your Guide to Standardized Herbal Products. Prescott, Arizona: One World Press. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp. Werbach, M., (1993) Nutritional Influences of Illness. Tarzana, California: Third Line Press.

Historical Uses:Past uses of Green tea extract include blocking the attachment of the bacteria associated with dental caries and blocking the cancer-promoting actions of carcinogens, ultraviolet light, and metastasis.

Analysis:Total Polyphenols 52.56%, Moisture 2.5%, Amino acid <=5%, Ash 13.4%, Caffeine 8.0%, Lead <60mg/kg, Copper <2mg/kg.