A delicate, grassy infusion made from unoxidized Camellia sinensis leaves, green tea serves as a hydrating beverage characterized by its high concentration of protective polyphenols.
Green tea consumption is consistently linked to improved cardiovascular health, with systematic reviews showing it can significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure .35
Regular intake is well-established to reduce total and LDL cholesterol (the type often referred to as "bad" cholesterol) by inhibiting its absorption in the intestines .4511
The beverage contains high concentrations of catechins (a type of polyphenol antioxidant), specifically epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which are preserved because the leaves are steamed immediately after harvest to stop fermentation .179
While often associated with weight management, major reviews indicate that green tea does not lead to meaningful weight loss in humans .79
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
Seasonality has not been estimated for this ingredient yet.
Keep away from light, moisture, and strong odors
Tea has a relatively low carbon footprint per cup, though water heating is the primary energy driver.
Unlike black tea, green tea leaves are steamed or pan-fired immediately after harvest to halt oxidation, which preserves their vibrant green color and specific antioxidant profile.