Green tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant (a one-and-a-half-metre high shrub). The leaf extract has a high antioxidant power and also provides other nutrients that support the immune system.
It has antioxidant properties due to its content in polyphenols, such as catechins and flavonoids, which are present in greater quantities than in black tea. Polyphenols help neutralise free radicals, which is of interest to protect our body against degenerative diseases with excessive oxidative stress.
It also contains stimulant xanthic bases, such as caffeine. This group of substances has a stimulating effect on the central nervous system. People sensitive to caffeine should be aware of this and moderate their consumption of green tea. This stimulating effect is also used to activate fat metabolism. It is one of the most common ingredients in so-called "thermogenic" dietary supplements. Remember that they are an aid in weight management diets, but it is still essential to follow a low-calorie diet and a physically active lifestyle for them to be effective.
Some cosmetic products also incorporate green tea extract for its antioxidant properties and decongestive effect, particularly interesting in eye contour products for bags and dark circles.
If you have any questions about the use of dietary supplements and cosmetics containing green tea extract, please consult a healthcare professional.