1. Botanical Characteristics
Green tea comes from the Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze plant, part of the Theaceae family. This evergreen shrub typically grows between 1–6 metres tall and features alternate, ovate leaves with finely serrated edges. Young leaves are often covered in fine hairs. The plant produces fragrant white flowers with 5–6 petals, and its fruit contains nearly round seeds in a three-valve capsule.
2. Distribution and Harvest
Green tea is cultivated across midland and highland regions of Vietnam (e.g. Thai Nguyen, Lam Dong, Ha Giang, Vinh Phuc), China, and other tropical nations. The prime harvest season is from September to April. Depending on the processing method, green tea leaves are transformed into products such as fresh tea, dried tea, black tea, and oolong tea—all derived from the same plant species.
Key Nutrients in Green Tea Leaves
Green tea contains over 4,000 bioactive compounds, primarily:
Polyphenols (especially catechins such as EGCG, EGC, EC, ECG)
Caffeine, theobromine, theophylline
Vitamins C, E, and B-complex
Amino acids (notably L-theanine)
Minerals like potassium and magnesium
EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) is one of the most potent antioxidants found in green tea, offering exceptional cellular protection.
Benefits and Uses of Green Tea
1. Modern Pharmacological Benefits
Powerful antioxidant, preventing cell damage
Improves vascular health by enhancing vitamin P activity
Promotes detoxification, aids digestion, and cools the body
Supports weight loss, lowers cholesterol, and reduces blood pressure
Stimulates the nervous system, improves concentration, and relieves stress
Enhances immunity and supports heart health
2. Traditional Herbal Medicine Uses
In Eastern medicine, green tea is described as bitter, astringent, and cooling. It is traditionally used to:
Calm the mind
Promote urination and reduce bloating
Detoxify and cool the skin
Treat diarrhoea, dysentery, burns, ulcers, and even snakebites
3. Skin and Beauty Benefits
Anti-ageing & skin brightening: Polyphenols, vitamin E and C hydrate the skin, slow ageing, and reduce pigmentation.
Acne control: Catechins like EGCG have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Reduce eye puffiness: Caffeine and tannins help diminish dark circles and puffiness.
Scalp care: Green tea helps cleanse the scalp, reduce dandruff, and promote hair growth.
How to Use Green Tea Safely
Daily Use
As a beverage: Boil 200g of fresh green tea leaves with 2.5L of water. Add lemon or rock sugar for taste. Drink cool throughout the day.
For water retention: Consume 2–3L of tea daily for 3–4 days.
For diarrhoea/dysentery: Steep dried green tea buds with guava leaves and drink as herbal tea.
For Beauty and Skin
Face mask: Blend green tea leaves with yoghurt or honey. Apply to the face for 10–15 minutes and rinse with cool water.
Eye care: Place chilled used tea bags on closed eyes to reduce puffiness and dark circles.
Precautions and Side Effects
Precautions
Avoid drinking on an empty stomach or while fasting.
Not suitable for individuals allergic to caffeine or those with severe liver or kidney conditions.
Avoid excessive intake or strong extracts, especially in the evening if you suffer from insomnia.
Use with caution during pregnancy and for children.
Potential Side Effects
Overconsumption may cause restlessness, insomnia, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, or digestive upset.
High caffeine levels may affect individuals with high blood pressure or pregnant women.
Prolonged overuse of strong green tea extracts may risk liver toxicity.
Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if you experience any adverse effects.
Green Tea in Skincare and Cosmetics
Thanks to its high EGCG, catechin, and vitamin content, green tea extract is a powerful ingredient in many cosmetic products such as:
Facial cleansers
Sheet masks
Body washes
Shampoos
Benefits include:
Skin hydration and regeneration
Antioxidant protection against ageing and UV rays
Acne prevention and oil control
Green tea leaves are more than just a soothing beverage—they’re a powerhouse of natural antioxidants, vitamins, and active compounds that promote better health, youthful skin, and overall well-being. Whether you enjoy drinking it daily, applying it in your skincare routine, or using high-quality green tea extract products, this time-tested herbal remedy can play a valuable role in your wellness journey.
Explore the natural power of green tea today with Vietnamese Cosmetics’ premium product range (link), crafted to retain the full potency of Camellia sinensis for your health and beauty.