Rich with antioxidants and nutrients, green tea is considered by many to have benefits for a variety of health issues.
A 2018 study showed the major polyphenolic compound present in green tea, EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate), was found to exhibit a wide range of therapeutic properties, including:
In a 2012 study, these plant polyphenols were shown to also offer cancer-prevention effects when used to protect the skin and immune system support.
According to a 2016 review, the EGCG in green tea has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. They have shown improvement in treating acne and oily skin.
Acne is the result of excess sebum clogging pores and stimulating bacterial growth.
EGCG is anti-androgenic and lowers lipid levels. This makes it effective at reducing sebum excretions in the skin. By reducing sebum, EGCG can slow or stop the development of acne.
According to a 2003 study, the polyphenols in green tea can be used as pharmacological agents for the prevention of solar UVB light-induced skin disorders in animals and humans, including:
A 2012 review of 20 studies indicated that green tea extract has been shown to be potentially effective when applied to the skin and taken as a supplement for:
Consider green tea extract as part of your acne regimen.
In a 2016 study, participants took 1,500 mg of green tea extract for 4 weeks. At the conclusion of the study, participants showed a significant reduction in the red skin bumps acne causes.
Drinking green tea and applying it to your skin can help your skin handle the aging process better.
If you're experiencing swelling around your eyes, this green tea home remedy for puffy eyes may provide relief. It's a simple method.
Here are the steps:
Advocates for this treatment suggest that the combination of caffeine and a cold compress will help alleviate the puffiness.
Although clinical research does not support this method, the Mayo Clinic recommends using a cool compress (washcloth and cool water).
Also, according a 2010 article in the Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, the caffeine in green tea can constrict the blood vessels to reduce swelling and inflammation.
The area around your eyes is sensitive, so before attempting this remedy, consider:
As with any home remedy, talk with your doctor before trying it. Also, stop using it if you experience any pain or irritation.
There are many research studies that show that both drinking green tea and applying it topically can have benefits for your skin.
Not only can green tea and green tea extract help with acne and help your skin look younger, but it also has the potential for helping to prevent melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers.