In the United States, skin cancer affects approximately 600,000 people per year, making this disease the most common form of cancer. About 90 percent of skin tumors are a type called basal cell carcinoma, which normally begin in parts of the head and neck. The greater risk for skin cancer occurs in people who are in long-term sun exposure, such as a long training ride and an iron man with no sunblock. Green tea may slow or prevent the development of skin cancer.
Plant Description
Green tea comes from the prepared leaves and leaf buds of an evergreen shrub of Asian origin called Camellia sinensis. It is currently under extensive production in many Asian countries, including China and India. Hundreds of millions of people drink green tea around the world to promote health and satisfy thirst.
Green Tea Composition
Green tea contains a high concentration of polyphenols, chemicals with potent antioxidant properties. Polyphenols in green tea are classified as catechins, which provide green tea's cancer preventive effects. Green tea also contains other biologically active substances, such as volatile oils, flavonoids, polysaccharides, caffeine, vitamins and minerals.
Green Tea and Skin Cancer
In modern Chinese medicine and culture, green tea and its extracts are extensively used in the prevention and treatment of various skin diseases, including skin cancer. The rich polyphenol content in green tea scavenges free radicals, cell damaging compounds in the body that alter DNA molecules in the chromosomes, inducing harmful mutations that lead to the initiation of skin cancer.
Precautions
In general, green tea is a safe herb, even in large amounts. Nevertheless, you must always check with your doctor before you consider taking green tea. Green tea can trigger side effects in patients with peptic ulcers, such as heartburn, diarrhea and a reduction of appetite, due to the presence of tannin and chlorogenic acid. Pregnant women and women who breast feed must not consume green tea without talking to doctors, since green tea caffeine can interfere with iron metabolism in infants, which leads to initiation of anemia.
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