by Health Benefits of Tea Extracts
Green tea extract is one of the most widely studied compounds due to its high concentration of polyphenols like EGCG. These compounds act as powerful antioxidants and have been linked to many health benefits. Research shows that green tea extract may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. The compounds in green tea have anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Some observational studies have also found green tea extract to be associated with a lower risk of cancer, especially cancers of the breast and prostate. The antioxidant compounds in green tea extract help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Skin Benefits
Beyond health benefits, tea extracts can provide benefits for your skin as well. They have been shown to protect skin from sun damage due to their antioxidant properties. Green tea extracts, in particular, have anti-aging benefits for the skin. The catechins in green tea extracts help reduce inflammation, promote collagen production, and inhibit enzymes that cause wrinkles and age spots. Tea Extracts studies have found a reduced risk of skin cancer in populations that consume green tea on a regular basis. The antioxidant compounds in extracts can also help reduce acne when applied topically due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. They may help soothe skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis as well.
Forms of Tea Extract Products
Tea extracts are commonly found as ingredients in supplements, cosmetics, and food and beverage products. Supplements and cosmetics usually contain concentrated forms of green tea extract or other types of extracts as their main active ingredient. They are sold in forms like capsules, tablets, or as ingredients in face creams and serums. Food and beverage products sometimes incorporate extracts as natural flavors, preservatives or antioxidants. Black tea and white extracts are commonly used in flavored waters and teas. Green tea extracts are found in some energy drinks for their caffeine content as well as health benefits. Extracts are also found as ingredients in some snacks, baked goods and protein bars. Overall, these products deliver the antioxidant compounds from teas in convenient forms.
Green Tea Extract Benefits and Uses
By far the most widely studied tea extract is green tea extract due to its high concentration of potent polyphenols. Some key research-backed benefits and uses of green tea extract include:
– Heart Health – Studies have found green tea extract can help lower total and LDL “bad” cholesterol levels. It may also slightly lower blood pressure.
– Weight Management – The caffeine and catechin compounds may boost metabolism and increase fat oxidation. Studies show green tea extract can help with weight loss or maintenance as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
– Brain Health – Some research associates green tea extract intake with a lower risk of cognitive decline as well as benefits like improved memory, alertness and focus.
– Dental Health – Extracts used in mouthwash products can help reduce bad breath and inhibit bacterial growth in the mouth and gums.
– Skin Care – As mentioned above, green tea extract is an anti-aging ingredient that can reduce sun damage, inflammation and signs of skin aging.
– Cancer Prevention – Observational research links green tea intake with lower risks of cancers like breast and prostate. However, more research is still needed.
Oolong Tea Extract Benefits
Oolong tea falls between green and black teas in oxidation level during processing. Like green tea, it retains a good amount of polyphenols with benefits of its own. Some key potential benefits of oolong tea extract include:
– Weight Management – Studies show compounds in oolong tea may increase calorie burning and fat oxidation similarly to green tea.
– Heart Health – Research associates oolong consumption with reduced risk of heart disease through lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
– Diabetes Prevention – Animal studies suggest oolong tea extract improves insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
– Anti-Inflammatory – The antioxidant phenols in oolong tea give it powerful anti-inflammatory properties to protect health.
The Bottom Line on Tea Extracts
In tea extracts provide a concentrated dose of healthy antioxidants, polyphenols, flavonoids and other beneficial plant compounds naturally found in tea leaves. Regular intake has been associated with anti-aging, skin, heart, brain and digestive health benefits in research. Green tea extract in particular is backed by overwhelming evidence. Overall, incorporating tea extracts in your diet and skincare routine can offer a natural way to help promote overall health and well-being.
