Green Tea: A crossover between health, well-being and flawless skin

In celebration of spring, I’m excited to unveil a long-awaited article addressed to one of the most invigorating and pioneering ingredients in Asian culture and worldwide skin care: green tea.

In this article, my goal is to explore through green tea a powerful and potent way (method) to nurture our inner vitality and well-being. Specifically, to enhance your skincare routine, therefore taking care of all aspects of self-care.

Green tea is rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and other bioactive compounds that have been studied for their positive effects on skin health, most notably catechins, like EGCG (a type of catechin). Although catechins are the best studied compound of the plant origin, we still don’t have conclusive results, still being difficult to find and isolates catechins conjugates from the leaves. Nevertheless, researchers still need to prove its potential benefits.

This beloved plant is a source of phenolic compound as caffeic acid, and many other groups of compounds like amino acids, proteins, minerals, caffeine, and vitamin K.

People have enjoyed green tea for thousands of years, drawn to its health benefits and pleasant aroma, making it one of the most popular drinks in the world.

Overall, people value green tea for its many benefits — helping with stress, reducing anxiety, boosting memory, possibly acting as a gentle diuretic, and keeping you alert and focused. Furthermore, some researchers suggest it can potentially lower cholesterol levels.

• Antioxidant properties

Studies have shown that the application of green tea extracts topically can enhance the antioxidant defense system of the skin, protecting it from environmental stressors.

• Anti-Inflammatory effects

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a major component of green tea, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects when applied topically, for skin conditions like acne and rosacea.

• Photoprotective effects

In addition, some studies suggest that green tea may provide a degree of protection against UV-induced skin damage, including sunburn and photoaging.

• Anti-Aging benefits

The antioxidant content in green tea may contribute to its anti-aging effects. Specifically, studies show EGCG may improve skin elasticity and hydration, helping promote a youthful complexion.

• Wound Healing and Skin Repair

Researchers have investigated green tea for its role in promoting wound healing and aiding skin repair. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of green tea may support these processes.

Emerging research shows that drinking too much green tea may cause hepatotoxicity, potentially leading to liver damage if you don’t consume it in moderation. Moreover, people often report gastrointestinal disturbances, and some occasionally experience rare side effects such as insomnia, elevated blood pressure, and skin reactions.

Green tea’s rich history begins in China, where growers first cultivated the Camellia sinensis plant. This marked the beginning of a diverse array of tea options derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant, giving rise to a beloved tradition known as tea culture, or “cha wenhua,” celebrated as the art of drinking tea, or “chayi.”

Similarly, Japan shows its own elaborate tea etiquette, highlighted by the revered tea ceremony. This ceremonial practice encompasses not only green tea but also matcha and various other types of tea.

The meticulous rituals and customs surrounding tea in both cultures reflect a deep reverence for the beverage and its significance in various life events. From serene moments of reflection to joyous celebrations, tea culture bridges generations and binds communities together in a shared appreciation for the art of tea.

Did you know that various types of tea including green, black, white, and oolong tea, all come from Camellia sinensis? The key distinction lies in the different processing methods for each tea type. 

Its unique processing method distinguishes green tea from other types of tea, offering a refreshing and health-promoting drink prized for its taste and potential health benefits.  

The process of making green tea begins with harvesting young leaves and leaf buds from the Camellia sinensis plant, followed by whitening, a secondary process, vital in retaining their vibrant green color and preserving their natural compounds. In the third step, producers immediately heat-treat or steam green tea leaves to stop oxidation—unlike other teas that undergo oxidation—preserving the health benefits linked to its unoxidized nature.

Next, they roll the leaves to shape them and reduce moisture content, then dry them to lock in their distinctive flavors, aromas, and health-promoting compounds. 

So, it’s clear that with green tea isn’t just a casual pastime in gardening; it is truly a mastery, passed down through generations and cultivated in the lush landscapes of subtropical and tropical regions, particularly in China and Japan. 

As I was mentioning earlier, one noteworthy derivative of green tea that holds significant importance in both skincare and consumption is matcha powder. Known for its exceptional properties, matcha stands out as a versatile ingredient that offers a multitude of benefits for your skin and overall well-being. 

For instance, matcha powder, originating from dried and finely ground green tea leaves, has potent antioxidant properties that help combat free radicals, promote a youthful and radiant complexion. Moreover, matcha’s natural anti-inflammatory properties can soothe and calm irritated skin, making it an ideal choice for sensitive skin types.

Beyond skincare, people also use matcha powder to make hot beverages. Whether incorporated into lattes, smoothies, or baked goods, matcha infuses a vibrant green hue and a distinctive flavor profile. Matcha is rich in nutrients and has a subtle caffeine note, thus serving as a nourishing and energizing addition to your daily routine. Side note—some people don’t enjoy the taste of matcha, often describing it as strongly “grassy.”