What is Green tea extract?
Green tea extract is concentrated from the leaves of Camellia sinensis. Its main polyphenol is EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate).
What it does for skin
We did not find a general skin-benefit claim on the NCCIH green tea page. Its one topical reference is the FDA-approved ointment containing a specific green tea extract for external genital and perianal warts.
What the research shows
NCCIH says that, despite a large body of research, definite conclusions cannot yet be reached on whether green tea is helpful for most of the purposes for which it is used.
Forms, amounts and limits
NCCIH reports no safety concerns for green tea consumed as a beverage by adults. Green tea does contain caffeine.
Side effects of green tea extract supplements include nausea, constipation and abdominal discomfort, according to NCCIH.
Safety
NCCIH says liver injury has been reported in some people using green tea products, mainly extracts in tablet or capsule form. It calls this uncommon, and says people with a specific immune-related gene variant may be more susceptible. NCCIH notes that 5 to 15% of Americans have this variant.
NCCIH reports drug interactions: green tea at high doses reduces blood levels of the beta-blocker nadolol, and green tea extract can reduce blood levels of the cholesterol drug atorvastatin. An NCCIH-funded study showed an interaction with raloxifene.
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition or take medicines.
Questions
Is drinking green tea good for skin?
NCCIH says definite conclusions cannot yet be reached on whether green tea helps. It reports no safety concerns for adults drinking it as a beverage.
Sources
General information, not medical advice. Vanu Health does not sell this supplement. Read our terms.