Green Tea Extract
The health benefits of green tea extract are purported to be extensive. Taking a green tea supplement in the form of a pill or drops may be a convenient way to obtain the health advantages of green tea without actually making a cup of tea.Studies find that drinking green tea offers a wide range of benefits, based on how green tea is processed. After the leaves of the Camellia sinensis tea plant are harvested, they are lightly steamed. Then, they are roasted or dried before being rolled and readied for use as green tea.
Essentially, the tea leaves have no fermentation and this allows beneficial antioxidants or polyphenols to remain in the green tea. These antioxidants are thought to help the promote wellness and address a variety of health concerns. Green tea also contains other compounds such as theobromine, caffeine, theophylline, and L-theanine.Health Benefits
Throughout the centuries, green tea has been used as a diuretic, stimulant, astringent, and an anti-flatulent, among other things. Some companies advertise green tea extract for wellness and anti-aging because it contains the antioxidant EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) which has shown to support a healthy immune system. Other health problems that green tea and supplements might help are inflammation, dental issues (tooth decay, bad breath), arthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, digestive disorders, and weight loss. Additionally, green tea is thought to have some cancer-preventing attributes. Side Effects
Taking a green tea supplement is considered safe for most adults, according to many herbalists. However, anyone drinking green tea or taking a green tea pill or extract for medicinal purposes should consult with a physician prior to starting a tea regime. It is important to note that green tea extract and supplements have been known to have adverse reactions in some people who take antibiotics, anxiety medications, blood pressure, or blood thinning medications, chemotherapy, and oral contraceptives, among others. In general, people who have kidney problems, stomach ulcers, heart problems, or anxiety should avoid green tea unless advised otherwise by a physician. Some reports indicate that green tea could affect the liver. People with liver disorders or those who develop symptoms of liver problems, such as jaundice or dark urine, should immediately consult with their physician. Also, if you are scheduling surgery, talk with your doctor about your use of green tea supplements. Women who are pregnant or nursing, anyone taking medication, children under the age 18, and anyone with a medical condition should consult a physician prior to partaking of this herbal supplement. Additionally, green tea itself has a small amount of caffeine and methylxanthines, so drinking the beverage could interfere with sleep. Ingredients
Green tea extract generally contain bits of tea leaves that are listed as Camellia sinensis on the label. Other ingredients may include added polyphenols, sugar, artificial coloring or flavors, sodium, wheat, gluten, dairy, or yeast. Additionally, you might see cellulose (for the capsule) on the ingredient list. How to Take
To get the benefits of green tea extract, follow the directions on the bottle. Generally, these indicate that pills or drops should be taken once a day. Store the extract in a cool, dry place. To gain the health benefits by drinking green tea, try to partake of one to three cups each day. Sources: University of Maryland Medical Center (http://www.umm.edu) and Web MD (http://www.webmd.com).
Related Information
Green Tea Oil
Green Tea Weight Loss Products
Black Tea vs. Green Tea
Green Tea Powder (Matcha)
Return to Learn About Tea HOME from Green Tea Extract
Share Your Comments!
We welcome your insights about what you just read. Please leave a comment in the box below.
|