Green tea is one of the most common teas in the world, but the extract is its concentrated form, containing the same amount in a dosage as one cup of tea. Like green tea, the extract is a good source of antioxidants with a wide range of health benefits, from promoting brain, liver and heart health to improving the skin and helping to reduce the risk of cancer. It is said to possess powerful antibacterial, antiviral and anti-carcinogenic properties, and the Chinese have used for centuries for revitalization and longevity. What's more, many of the studies conducted have shown its ability to aid in weight management, and, in fact, is the key first ingredient in many weight loss products.
Polyphenol antioxidants called catechins comprise a major part of the green tea extracts antioxidant content. Among these catechins, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the most researched and is thought to provide most of its health benefits. The studies have shown its ability to neutralize free radicals, by increasing the antioxidant capacity of the body and protecting against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress increases fat build-up in the blood and promotes inflammation of the arteries, which can lead to high blood pressure. Additionally, it reduces blood fat levels, including lower triglycerides and total and LDL cholesterol.
The catechins in green tea may also help to reduce inflammation caused by some liver diseases like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The extract has shown to significantly reduce liver enzyme levels, liver fat content, inflammation and oxidative stress. It is important to stick to the recommended dosage, however, because it has shown to be harmful to the liver in excessive doses.
The extract also has a healthy stimulating effect that increases energy and alertness, perhaps because of its caffeine content. Research has shown that both catechins and caffeine assist in weight loss by helping to regulate hormones that can enhance thermogenesis, the generation of body heat, which in turn burns the calories and fat. Green tea extracts also seem to help with getting exercise, for enhancing performance and for recovery. Antioxidants like green tea catechins can greatly reduce cellular damage and delay muscle fatigue.
The antioxidants in green tea extract, especially EGCG, have been shown to protect the brain from oxidative stress. It is believed that the tea leaves extracts may help the memory by enhancing the connection between different parts of the brain. This protection can help reduce brain damage that leads to mental decline and diseases like Alzheimer's, dementia and Parkinson's disease.
Maintaining your body's tissues and organs can be characterized by cell death and regeneration. Specialized cells known as stem cells produce new cells that replace those that die to keeps cells active and healthy. When this balance is disrupted, cancer can occur. One study showed that the effects of taking 600 mg of green tea catechins per day for a year on patients at risk of developing prostate cancer. So, in order to get the full benefits of the catechins in Green Tea, you might need to take Green Tea extracts, or else spend all your waking moment's brewing and sipping. The study showed that a concentrated dose of Green Tea can be equal to eight to sixteen cups a day to boost the production of enzymes that make carcinogens less toxic. It also showed that the likelihood of developing cancer was 3% for the green tea group, compared to 30% for the control group. Doctors tested Green Tea extracts in the prevention of pre-cancerous growths in the colon and rectum. They found that those studied who had a prior growth removed at colonoscopy were still free of polyps one year later. In other trials, it was found that Green Tea extract could arrest the growth of cancer cells in people suffering from chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) at the early stage of the disease. It may also help to lower the risk of oral cancer and is being studied for its ability to help slow down the development of breast cancer, bladder cancer, ovarian, and pancreatic cancer. Skin damaged by radiation treatments has also been treated by some with a Green Tea extract. Because of the antioxidant compounds found in tea could decrease toxicity that follows this type of therapy and may help to effectively treat the inflammatory skin conditions developing after cancer treatments.
Green Tea has traditionally been used to control blood sugar in the body. Studies suggest the Green Tea extract may help prevent Type 1 diabetes and slow the progression once it has developed. People with Type 1 diabetes produce little or no insulin, a hormone the converts glucose, starches, and other foods into energy needed for daily life. Green Tea may help regulate glucose in the body. A few clinical studies found that daily supplementation of the diet with Green Tea extract lowered hemoglobin A1c level in individuals with borderline diabetes.
Green tea extract has classically been used to treat mild asthma and bronchitis. Although other potent anti-asthma medications available with more therapeutic benefit, Green tea may be beneficial for mild respiratory problems and is safe, even for children. It is said to relax and soothe the muscles supporting the bronchial tubes, thereby reducing the problems associated with bronchitis and mild cases of asthma.
Green Tea also inhibits oral bacteria and may prevent tooth decay. The compounds found in Green Tea can stop the growth of dental bacteria that cause bad breath and their production of malodorous compounds. The research found that Green Tea significantly decreases the odds of tooth loss and that those who used it on a regular basis had superior periodontal health compared to those who do not use the herbal extract.
It is considered an energizing tonic that promotes detoxification, enhances the immune system and prolongs life. Modern research has confirmed many of these health benefits. In order to get the maximum Green Tea benefits, you have to make sure to take a supplement with standardized herbal extract of pure green tea. Many products on the market do not use a standardized extract because it is cheaper to produce. Beware because these products do not contain enough of the active ingredient to offer the benefits of Green Tea.
Ingredients: Green Tea Tincture/Extract Concentrate, Structured Water, and 20% Alcohol.
Non-Alcohol: Green Tea Extract Concentrate, Structured Water, and Vegetable Glycerin.
Instructions: Use 6-12 or more drops in juice or water, under the tongue or as desired. May be taken 3 times daily. Shake well. Store in cool dark place. Keep out of reach of children.
Contraindications: Pregnant women or those who take blood thinners should not use Green Tea. People who use ginseng regularly or those taking patent medicine (especially codeine) should consult their doctors before using Green Tea. The most common adverse effect reported from consuming large amounts of Green Tea (many times the recommended daily dosage) is insomnia, anxiety and other symptoms caused by the caffeine content in the herb. Must take with a meal. In rare cases, extracts from Green Tea have been reported to adversely affect the liver. Discontinue use and consult a healthcare practitioner if you have a liver disorder or develop symptoms of liver trouble, such as abdominal pain, dark urine or jaundice. Patients undergoing cancer therapy with Velcade should not take Green Tea extracts, since it may interfere with the drug's efficacy.
Disclaimer: The information presented herein by New Way Herbs is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own healthcare provider.
