Green Tea Extract: A Powerful Natural Antioxidant for Health, Wellness, and Skincare

Technical Introduction

Green Tea Extract is derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, rich in polyphenols, catechins, flavonoids, and caffeine, making it a potent antioxidant and bioactive botanical. Traditionally consumed as tea, the extract is now widely used in dietary supplements, functional beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

• Botanical Name:Camellia sinensis

• Part Used: Leaves

• Active Compounds:

  • Catechins (30–50%) – EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), EGC, ECG, EC

  • Flavonoids & polyphenols – powerful antioxidants

  • Caffeine (2–5%) – natural stimulant

  • Theanine – amino acid with calming effects

  • Vitamins & minerals – vitamin C, manganese, potassium

• Forms Available: Powder extract, liquid extract, capsules, granules

• Appearance: Brown to greenish powder / dark brown liquid

• Solubility: Water soluble (for most extracts)

Applications

1. Cosmetics & Personal Care

• Anti-aging creams & serums – protects skin against free radical damage

• Anti-acne formulations – antibacterial against Propionibacterium acnes

• Skin-soothing products – reduces redness and irritation

• Haircare – strengthens follicles, promotes growth, reduces dandruff

• Sunscreens & after-sun gels – antioxidant protection from UV-induced damage

2. Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Uses

• Supports cardiovascular health by reducing LDL cholesterol and improving circulation

• Shows anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity

• Studied for weight management (thermogenic and fat oxidation effects)

• May support cognitive function and neuroprotection

3. Nutraceuticals & Functional Foods

• Widely used in capsules, tablets, powders, and beverages

• Marketed for energy boost, fat-burning, and immunity support

• Added to protein shakes, sports drinks, and green superfood blends

4. Beverages & Food Industry

• Used as a flavoring and functional additive in teas, juices, and health beverages

• Natural preservative function due to antimicrobial properties

✅ Advantages

• High antioxidant content (EGCG) – protects cells from oxidative stress

• Anti-inflammatory – soothes skin and reduces systemic inflammation

• Metabolism booster – supports weight management

• Cardiovascular support – lowers LDL cholesterol, supports heart health

• Skin health – reduces acne, protects from UV damage, and slows aging

• Natural preservative – antimicrobial action extends shelf life in formulations

⚙️ Technical Specifications (Typical Parameters)

⚠️ Safety & Regulations

• Topical Use: Safe and widely used in cosmetics worldwide.

• Oral Use: Recognized as safe in regulated doses. Excessive intake of concentrated extracts may cause liver stress in sensitive individuals.

• Caffeine Sensitivity: Decaffeinated green tea extracts available for sensitive users.

• Regulatory Status:

  • EU & US: Approved as a dietary supplement and cosmetic ingredient

  • Japan: Recognized in FOSHU (Foods for Specified Health Uses)

❓ FAQ

Q1: What is EGCG and why is it important?
EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) is the most active catechin in Green Tea, known for powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolism-boosting effects.

Q2: Is Green Tea Extract safe for long-term use?
Yes, at moderate doses. However, excessive intake of concentrated supplements may cause digestive issues or liver stress.

Q3: Does Green Tea Extract help with weight loss?
Yes, it can boost metabolism, increase fat oxidation, and enhance thermogenesis, especially when combined with exercise.

Q4: Can Green Tea Extract be used in both food and cosmetics?
Yes. It is widely approved as an ingredient in functional foods, supplements, and skincare.

Q5: How does Green Tea Extract compare to Coffee Extract?
Green Tea has lower caffeine but higher antioxidants (EGCG), making it more suitable for sustained energy, skin health, and anti-aging applications.