Green Tea and EGCG Catechins

EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) is a catechin found in green tea.  A recent study states that EGCG protects the skin from UV radiation damage and tumor formation.  This study can be read in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 2007, v. 18:5, p287-296, S. Katiyar, C. Elmet.  The article is entitled “Green tea and skin cancer: photoimmunology, angiogenesis and DNA repair.”  EGCG has received a lot of attention in the scientific world but is one of many catechins that has potential health benefits.  Catechins are flavonoids found in many plants but are especially abundant in tea (Camellia Sinensis).  Catechins are also found in chocolate, wine, fruits, and vegetables.  Studies suggest that they may help reduce atherosclerotic plaques and carcinogenesis.  Catechins in green tea have been shown to convert carcinogens into benign substances.