Green tea, long enjoyed in Asian countries, has become widely recognized in Western countries for its many health benefits. Green tea is made from the minimally-processed leaves of the Camillia senensis plant; therefore it retains a higher level of antioxidants than more extensively processed black teas. Green tea has been linked to weight loss, improved vascular function and reduced incidence of acne breakouts.
History
Tea was first consumed in Asia nearly 5000 years ago, and remains the world's most popular beverage today. Chinese literature documents the health benefits of tea as far back as the 8th century. Research on the benefits of green tea in particular has become increasingly prevalent since the beginning of the 21st century, and green tea consumption in America has increased in response.
Green Tea vs. Black Tea
Green tea is made from steaming and withering the leaves of the Camillia senensis plant, whereas black teas are made from fermenting the leaves. The steaming and withering process allows green tea to keep much more of the naturally present antioxidants than does the fermenting process.
Benefits for Acne
Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of Americans. Although not a life-threatening condition, acne can have detrimental effect on a person's self-esteem. Sufferers who are wary of potential side effects of prescription acne drugs often turn to natural, cost-effective remedies such as green tea. Green tea has high levels of antioxidants called catechins, and according to the Tang Center for Herbal Medicine Research, a specific catechin called epigallocatechin-3-gallate can modulate hormone activity in the body. This antioxidant activity can be useful for treatment of many hormone-related conditions, including acne.
Green Tea Use
Green tea can be an effective internal treatment for acne by drinking two or three cups daily. Green tea may be drunk hot or iced but either way should be enjoyed without sugar, which can have negative effects on skin health. It can also work externally, by applying a 2 percent green tea lotion to the skin twice daily to significantly reduce severity of acne.
Other Diet Considerations
Green tea should be one part of an overall healthy diet for fighting acne. An emphasis on low-glycemic load foods- many fruits and vegetables, whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat breads, whole grain pastas, and beans-in favor of high-sugar or refined grain foods is especially important. Evidence also exists that high consumption of milk leads to increased acne in teenagers, possibly due to the presence of hormones in many varieties of milk.
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