The Chinese have been familiar with the medicinal properties of green tea ever since the ancient era. Green tea has been used as medicine in China for over 4000 years. These days, the scientific studies in Asia and in West provide hard evidence for health benefits long associated with drinking green tea.

One study has revealed the results of epidemiological research which shows that drinking green tea reduces the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women by nearly 60%. Recently, some researchers also concluded that a substance in green tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Research also indicates that drinking green tea will lower the level of total cholesterol and improve the relationship between good (HDL) to bad cholesterol (LDL).

The secret of green tea lies in the fact that it is loaded with catechin polyphenols, especially the epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a powerful antioxidant that does not only inhibit the growth of cancer cells, but kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. It was also effective in reducing LDL cholesterol, and inhibits the irregular formation of blood clots. The latter has a greater significance when considered that thrombosis, which is the formation of abnormal blood clots, is the major cause of strokes and heart attacks.

New facts emerging show that green tea can even help dieters. Based on the research of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, it was found that men who received a combination of green tea extract and caffeine burn more calories than those who are given only caffeine. Green tea can even help prevent tooth decay. Like its ability to kill bacteria can help prevent food poisoning, it can also kill bacteria that causes dental plaque.

Green tea contains thermogenic properties which increases the metabolism of the body and promotes fat oxidation. In a study of 60 obese respondents, it was concluded that green tea can shed body weight by increasing energy usage as well as fat oxidation. The three ingredients in green tea that promote fat loss are caffeine, catechins and theanine which work to inhibit the enzymes that digest triglycerides, which plays a vital role in the metabolism, energy sources and fats. In a study of rats for six months, it was discovered that drinking green tea reduces overall body mass.

Free radicals that are created in the body are responsible for the symptoms associated with aging. The main task of anti-oxidants is that they help neutralize free radicals or oxidants in the body, and green tea is loaded with antioxidants. Catechin polyphenols in green tea are the main culprits in anti-oxidants, the most powerful among them, EGCG. Therefore, daily consumption of green tea can actually delay the symptoms of aging.