Medical practitioners and healers throughout history have used green tea to treat all sorts of ailments, including aches, pains, indigestion and depression. Green tea contains vitamins, minerals, oils and antioxidants, which some research suggests may promote your overall health and longevity. However, certain substances in green tea may interact with other supplements or medications that you currently take. You should consult your physician prior to beginning any supplement regimen.
Health Conditions
The healthful properties of green tea result from its high concentration of chemical compounds called polyphenols, which possess powerful antioxidant properties. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that polyphenols may aid in the prevention or treatment of certain types of cancer. Green tea may also lower cholesterol and promote cardiovascular health, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Green tea may aid in the regulation of blood sugar and reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes. Although promising, research into the effects of green tea is preliminary, and you should not use green tea to replace medical treatment for any illness.
Weight Control
Green tea may increase the metabolism and aid the body in burning fat. Also, the University of Michigan indicates that green tea may support weight loss by inhibiting the body's digestion of fat. Many weight loss products contain green tea, but you should exercise caution with these supplements. Several cases of liver damage have been reported by people using these products, and though researchers are unsure what exactly caused the liver damage, they warn against taking large doses of concentrated green tea extract.
Skin Care
The human body naturally produces free radicals in addition to being exposed to the free radicals in the environment. These chemical compounds damage skin cells and attack the collagen and elastin that keep the skin looking young and firm. The antioxidant properties in green tea render free radicals virtually harmless, according to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine.
Bone and Joint Health
According to eMedExpert.com, green tea may marginally increase bone density. This could aid in the prevention of bone loss and osteoporosis. Green tea may also promote joint health by slowing cartilage deterioration and reducing inflammation. Further research in needed to fully understand green tea's effects on human bones and joints.
Precautions
Though green tea is a generally safe and natural supplement, the University of Maryland Medical Center advises people with stomach ulcers, kidney problems or anxiety not to take green tea. Since green tea contains caffeine, pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take green tea.
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