Herbal Monograph: Camellia sinensis

Family

Theaceae

Actions

Antioxidant, thermogenic, diuretic, astringent, mild stimulant (Chacko et al., 2010)

Energetics

Cooling, drying (Tierra, 1998)

Chemical Constituents

• Catechins (Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), Epicatechin gallate (ECG), Epigallocatechin (EGC), Epicatechin (EC))
• Caffeine
• Theanine
• Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin)
• Vitamins (C, B2, E)
• Minerals (zinc, selenium, chromium, manganese)

The polyphenolic compounds, particularly catechins, are responsible for many of green tea‘s biological activities (Khan & Mukhtar, 2019).

Part of Plant Used

Leaves (fresh or dried)

Uses

• Supports cognitive function
• Promotes cardiovascular health
• Supports healthy weight management
• Promotes oral health
• Supports healthy inflammatory response
• Promotes antioxidant activity

A comprehensive review by Xing et al. (2019) highlighted green tea‘s potential in supporting various aspects of health, particularly in cardiovascular and metabolic wellness.

Contraindications

• Iron deficiency anemia (may impair iron absorption)
• Anxiety disorders (due to caffeine content)
• Bleeding disorders
• Liver disease

Side Effects

• Potential for sleep disturbances due to caffeine content
• Possible gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals
• May cause mild headaches in sensitive individuals

While generally well-tolerated, these side effects have been noted, particularly with high consumption (Yoto et al., 2014).

Interactions with Other Drugs

• May interact with anticoagulant preparations
• May affect iron absorption
• May interact with certain stimulant preparations
• May interact with certain chemotherapy drugs

Caution is advised when combining green tea with these types of preparations due to potential interactions (Ide et al., 2016).

Dosage

• Brewed tea: 3-5 cups daily (containing approximately 200-500 mg of polyphenols)
• Green tea extract: 250-500 mg daily (standardized to 50% polyphenols)

Clinical studies have used a wide range of doses, typically 200-1500 mg of green tea catechins daily for various applications (Ohishi et al., 2016).

Mode of Administration

Oral consumption as brewed tea, extract, or capsules.

Duration of Administration

Can be consumed daily as a beverage. For high-dose extracts, consult with a qualified herbalist for long-term use.

Risks

• Potential for caffeine-related side effects with high consumption
• Rare cases of liver toxicity reported with concentrated extracts
• May affect iron absorption with excessive consumption

A review by Hu et al. (2018) emphasized the importance of considering individual health conditions and potential interactions when using green tea therapeutically.

Recipes

1. Classic Green Tea

• 1 teaspoon green tea leaves
• 8 oz water at 175°F (80°C)
  Steep for 2-3 minutes, strain, and enjoy.

1. Green Tea Latte

• 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
• 1 cup steamed milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Honey to taste (optional)
  Whisk matcha with a small amount of hot water, add steamed milk and honey if desired.

1. Iced Green Tea

• 4 green tea bags
• 4 cups cold water
  Steep tea bags in cold water for 6-8 hours in the refrigerator, remove bags, and serve over ice.

Remember to always consult with a qualified herbalist before incorporating new herbs into your wellness routine, especially if you have existing health concerns or are taking other preparations.

Return to: A Wise Woman’s Guide to Reducing Inflammation with Herbs, Foods, and Lifestyle

References

Chacko, S. M., Thambi, P. T., Kuttan, R., & Nishigaki, I. (2010). Beneficial effects of green tea: A literature review. Chinese Medicine, 5, 13. https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-8546-5-13

Hu, J., Webster, D., Cao, J., & Shao, A. (2018). The safety of green tea and green tea extract consumption in adults – Results of a systematic review. Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 95, 412-433. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yrtph.2018.03.019

Ide, K., Yamada, H., Kawasaki, Y., Noguchi, M., Kitagawa, M., Chiba, T., Kagawa, Y., & Umegaki, K. (2016). Green tea consumption affects cognitive dysfunction in the elderly: a pilot study. Nutrients, 8(5), 256. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8050256

Khan, N., & Mukhtar, H. (2019). Tea polyphenols in promotion of human health. Nutrients, 11(1), 39. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11010039

Ohishi, T., Goto, S., Monira, P., Isemura, M., & Nakamura, Y. (2016). Anti-inflammatory action of green tea. Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry, 15(2), 74-90. https://doi.org/10.2174/1871523015666160915154443

Tierra, M. (1998). The way of herbs. Pocket Books.

Xing, L., Zhang, H., Qi, R., Tsao, R., & Mine, Y. (2019). Recent advances in the understanding of the health benefits and molecular mechanisms associated with green tea polyphenols. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 67(4), 1029-1043. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.8b06146

Yoto, A., Motoki, M., Murao, S., & Yokogoshi, H. (2014). Effects of L-theanine or caffeine intake on changes in blood pressure under physical and psychological stresses. Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 31(1), 28. https://doi.org/10.1186/1880-6805-31-28llness routine, especially if you have existing health concerns or are taking other preparations.