Green Tea Is Your Skin Tea

Did you know that Green Tea has been named 'The Skin Tea'? It has been so named due to properties it holds that can do wonders for your skin. Is clear, youthful, invigorated skin something you could live with? Then do read on and you will discover just how "in the tea leaves" your skins future is!

Green Tea originates from China and dates back as far as 4,000 years ago. It is made from the dried leaves of the pretty plant that is Camellia Sinensis, a perennial evergreen shrub. The tea leaves are dried out using steam, which prevents destruction of the hugely important antioxidants found in this 'skin tea'.

These antioxidants are scientifically known as catechin polyphenols, the main catechin being in short terms EGCG. This EGCG takes prevalence over the rest as it has such vast effects on the body's health as a whole.

The life cycle of your skins cells is 28 days. The formation of new cells begins with stem cells. These new cells take around 20 days to reach the extreme surface of the epidermis. When they reach this outer layer of the skin they are then ready to die. In saying this, it has been revealed that EGCG can react with these dying cells to get them dividing and renewing themselves again. So, if dying skin cells can be re-energised and renewed, what do you think this can do for the skin? Well, it will give the skin a replenished and revitalised look and feel.

A study released by Stanford University recently said that, via a volunteer group of Green Tea drinkers, the presence of EGCG in the tea verifies a diminished red vein look, reduction in pore sizes and refined skin. It also showed that EGCG can prevent the release of Histamine, which in turn lowers the skins sensitivity levels. This can have a diminishing effect on the presence of Acne Rosacea.

Top 4 Extra Facts You Need To Know

-Harvard Medical School state that "in test tubes, catechins (antioxidants) are more powerful than Vitamin C and E in halting oxidative damage to cell". In fact, EGCG catechins are 100 times more effective than Vitamin C and 25 more effective than Vitamin E.

-One cup of Green Tea produces 10-40mg of catechins, which has a greater antioxidant effect than a serving of broccoli, spinach, carrots and even strawberries.

-Free Radicals are said to be 'unpaired' electrons that have the ability of damaging cells membranes .In saying this, it has been shown that EGCG holds the power of killing these Free Radicals. Therefore these superb antioxidants can assist with UV radiation protection, by eating up any UV radicals that enter the skin. This information is very attractive considering that 90% of the skins anti-ageing signs are caused by UV rays.

-Vitamin B ' Riboflavin, is also found in Green Tea, and is responsible for keeping the tissues of the skin, hair and nails in good condition and to heal and protect the tissues of the skin.

As you take in the above information, you will quickly recognize why Green Tea has been named 'The Skin Tea'. In saying that, it's not just your skin that benefits hugely from the abundance of antioxidants; your whole body can become healthier and stronger by introducing it into your diet. With its array of benefits, also comes a wonderfully zesty flavour and can be made even zestier by adding some fresh lemon juice , which also enhances its cancer battling potential.