Green tea has been consumed in Asia for over 3000 years. Next to water, it is the most consumed beverage in the world. Green tea extract is made from pure green tea, and it contains the same beneficial polyphenols, which are potent antioxidants found in the green tea leaves and beverage. You can buy the extract in capsules. A typical dose of green tea is three cups per day, and the typical dose for green tea extract is three capsules per day. There is no standardization of herbal supplements, so dosages might differ between brands.
Cancer
Claims about green tea and cancer are primarily based on large population studies, comparing large groups of people who do and do not use green tea. Researchers try to factor in other circumstances that may affect statistics, but controlled studies are needed to substantiate and verify specific health claims.
The American Cancer Society at cancer.org discusses green tea and the growth of cancer cells. Studies using test tube cell cultures indicate that green tea inhibits blood vessel growth in certain tumors, killing the cells. Animal and human studies are needed before meaningful conclusions can be drawn.
Herbalists may recommend green tea to treat a variety of cancers. Population studies of green tea and certain specific types of cancer often have mixed findings. Current researchers are attempting to clear up previous conflicting results. For example, a Chinese study found that esophageal cancer was lower among non-smoking green tea drinkers, while a Japanese study found that esophageal cancer was more common among green tea drinkers. Controlled studies will provide more definitive information.
Cholesterol
Several studies indicate that green tea or extract lowers total cholesterol. It raises HDL, or good cholesterol, and lowers LDL, the bad cholesterol. A study using animals indicated that the polyphenols work in the intestines to prevent cholesterol from being absorbed, causing it to be excreted instead.
Genital Warts
One of the fastest spreading STDs in the world, genital and perianal warts, are caused by certain human papilloma virus strains. These painful and disfiguring warts can be successfully treated with FDA approved Polyphenon E ointment, which contains sinecatechin, a specific substance in green tea extract.
Weight Loss
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center.edu, green tea extract enhances weight loss by increasing metabolism and burning fat. Researchers for the clinical studies think the polyphenols bring about the results.
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