What Is Green Tea Extract?

Green tea extract is a popular component of several types of teas. It is known to supply nutrients and health benefits to its consumers. Consequently, green tea extract has found many uses over time. It is said that this extract contains medicinal and healing properties that promote a healthier lifestyle. In addition, it is implemented in the prevention of disease and in weight loss programs. Several scientific studies have confirmed the benefits offered by green tea extract, proving it to be a healthful herb.

The Facts

• Green tea extract is derived from the leaves of the plant, Camellia sinensis. This extract is standardized, ensuring that it undergoes minimal oxidation during the extraction process to better preserve its active ingredients. This process is known as steam blasting, in which the oxidizing enzymes contained in the leaves are killed with heat by roasting them in iron pans and then rolling them before crushing them into small pieces or a fine powder. Steam blasting preserves both the green color of the leaves and the properties of their ingredients. The ingredients in green tea extract include polyphenols, catechins, flavinoids and epigallocatechin-3-gallete, all of which are powerful antioxidants.

History

• Green tea extract originated in China during its first use in the Song Dynasty and is popular in many other Asian countries, such as Japan and those in the Middle East. It has since become very popular among the Japanese especially, even becoming dubbed "Japanese tea." Green tea extract comes in many grades, the variety depending upon where it is grown, in what conditions and how it is processed. The Chinese have used it for 3,000 years or more to regulate body temperature and digestion, and to heal numerous types of wounds.

Types

• Green tea extract is used to make three different types of teas. Not only is it the extract used to concoct green tea, it is the one used in black tea and oolong tea as well. Green tea is made when the green tea extract is less processed, giving it a weaker taste than black tea, but more healthful properties and retained nutrients. Black tea is made when the green tea extract is more heavily processed, giving it a stronger taste, but more oxidation that leads to less nutrient retention. Oolong tea is in the middle of the two. It is not quite black tea or green tea. It usually ranges from between 10 percent and 70 percent oxidation, which provides its distinct flavor.

Benefits

• Countless studies have disclosed possible benefits offered by green tea extract. According to the American Cancer Society, green tea extract can help fight and prevent cancer. A study conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Association concluded that green tea extract is associated with reduced mortality due to cardiovascular disease. A study conducted by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that green tea extract is associated with less cognitive impairment in humans. Another study conducted by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that green tea extract helps boost the metabolic rate. In addition, green tea extract has long been used by people in China and India for treating wounds and illnesses, and preventing fatigue.

Misconceptions

• Although several studies have found benefits attributed to green tea extract, it is not necessarily the miracle supplement that some boast it to be. There are many unsupported claims surrounding green tea extract. For instance, there is no evidence that green tea extract prevents neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's. Animal studies conducted by the Douglas Hospital Research Centre of McGill University in Quebec, Canada, merely suggests that 1 or 2 cups of green or black tea may reduce the likelihood of developing brain disorders, such as Alzheimer's. However, there are no human studies providing evidence of these claims, and it remains a speculatory issue. Suggestive studies such as the one mentioned above are sometimes misconstrued by third-party sources to be proven, scientific facts. Be aware of claims that cannot be proven by scientific evidence.