Know your Herb
Green Tea
Camellia sinensis
Latin Name: Camellia sinensis
Herb Class/Action: Supports Healthy Inflammatory Response, Astringent, Tonic
Parts Used: Leaves
Flavors: Bitter, sweet
Energetics: Cooling, drying, stimulant
Traditional Benefits: Detoxification support, heart health, digestive health, circulatory health, nutritive support, kidney support, lymphatic support, brain health, cognitive support, energy support
One of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, green tea offers a wealth of benefits for the mind, body, and spirit, supporting not just digestive health but also hormone balance, cognitive function, and immune health.*
According to an ancient legend, green tea may have been discovered by accident. In 2737 BC, Emperor Shennong of China was boiling water in his garden when a leaf from a nearby Camellia sinensis tree fell into his pot. The resulting drink led to the discovery of its medicinal properties and delightful taste.
Native to the Himalayas, green tea has been cultivated for thousands of years in India, China, and Japan. It has long been used for digestion support, cardiovascular health, metabolism, energy, and mental clarity.*
Modern research has uncovered fascinating insights into this herb, whose benefits were once only felt but not fully understood. Two key factors contribute to green tea’s powerhouse status: its thermogenic properties (helping support a healthy metabolism) and a chemical called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a polyphenol (catechin) with antioxidant properties that helps neutralize free radicals and reduce their formation.*
What’s truly remarkable about green tea is its ECGC content, which gives it extraordinary antioxidant power. A 1989 study showed that ECGC outperforms many common antioxidants, and its antioxidant strength is among the highest in the plant kingdom. This makes green tea a crucial ally for a healthy immune system (especially when combined with zinc).*
Another amazing aspect of green tea is its caffeine content, which works in tandem with L-Theanine, a calming amino acid that balances the stimulating effects of caffeine, supporting cognitive health.*
“Green tea may just be the most powerful of all antioxidant sources.” — Anthony Youn, MD, The Age Fix