Definition of Green Tea Extract

According to the Mayo Clinic, green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, and has been used for more 5,000 years in China.

Historical Uses

Historically, green tea was used during various traditional ceremonies and for staying alert during long periods of meditation, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Benefits

According to the University of the Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), green tea extract is a powerful antioxidant that helps rid the body of free radicals.

Dosage

There are no official recommendations of intake levels of green tea extract. According to NutraSanus.com (see References below), the average amount of green tea consumed per day is 3 cups.

Side Effects

According to the Mayo Clinic, green tea extract contains high levels of caffeine. Individuals with sensitivities to caffeine might experience gastrointestinal problems, insomnia, and an increased heart rate.

Forms

According to the UMMC, green tea extract most commonly comes in liquid form, such as in tea, and in capsule form.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: Dec 4, 2009

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