Green Tea Magic
This ancient elixir thwarts aging and illness.
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Did You Know?
You can make a refreshing beverage by combining two cups of iced green tea with 1/2 cup frozen berries.
Drinks and Supplements
Studies have demonstrated multiple benefits of drinking green tea or taking an extract, including protection against heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, gum disease, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, age-related mental decline, and some cancers; improved resistance to the flu; less likelihood of blood clots; improved recovery after a heart attack; improved blood pressure; better blood sugar control among diabetics; and better results from diet-and-exercise programs for weight loss.
Green tea also shields against damage from the sun’s UV rays. When used in a sunscreen or applied on the skin right after sun exposure, antioxidants in green tea enhance the skin’s natural defense mechanisms and inhibit oxidation, inflammation, and cancer development, according to research published in Experimental Dermatology and other journals. Green tea is not a replacement for sunscreen, but according to research published in Skin Therapy Letter, it does reduce the number of sunburn cells.
Shopping Guide
Green tea is available as tea leaves, in tea bags, bottled drinks, nutrition bars, and other foods; as an extract in supplements; and as an ingredient in skin creams, lotions, and sunscreens.
Inside
For health benefits, three or more cups of green tea daily is recommended, with or without caffeine. For green tea extract supplements, the amount taken is most often equivalent to 80 to 120 mg of polyphenols and 50 to 75 mg of EGCG, three times daily.
Outside
Use skin care products with green tea daily, especially during and after sun exposure. For blemishes, puffy eyes, inflamed or sunburned skin and cuts, scrapes or bites, apply green tea directly with a cotton pad soaked in the brew.
Brewing Basics
Let water barely boil and allow to cool slightly before brewing, as green tea requires a cooler temperature than black tea. Steep for 30 seconds to one minute, unless a specific variety requires longer brewing. For iced tea, double the usual amount of tea, brew, and allow to cool before pouring over ice cubes. To vary flavor, brew with slices of lemon or ginger and add a touch of honey or agave syrup.
Product Examples
Nature’s Answer Natural Green Tea Energy with Yerba Maté energize in minutes with no artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors.
Irwin Naturals Oolong & Matcha Tea combines four varieties of teas and traditional Asian herbs to help you burn excess calories.
The Crystal Essence Chamomile & Green Tea Mineral Deodorant Roll-On by French Transit combines the soothing qualities of chamomile with the powerful antioxidants of green tea.
Pure & Basic Green Tea Naturals Extra Cleansing Liquid Hand Soap uses 100 percent vegetarian ingredients, and is free from parabens and glycol.
Get green tea antioxidants by adding just a few drops of HerbaSway HerbaGreen Tea Concentrate to any beverage. This blend is sweetened with stevia and lo han.