Ingredients
Black and green tea are made from the leaves and buds of the tea bush, Camellia sinensis. Black tea is produced by oxidizing green tea leaves. This oxidation process results in reduced levels of catechins, the active ingredient in tea. Therefore, green tea has higher levels of catechins.
Catechins or polyphenols have strong antioxidant properties (see handout “Antioxidants”), which prevent damage to DNA and reduce the risk of cancer cell formation. Due to their antioxidant activity, the catechins in green tea can also significantly reduce inflammation of the liver and gastrointestinal tract, which may be a potential benefit in enteritis and hepatitis in small animals from almost any cause.
Black tea also contains theaflavins and thearubigins, which inhibit carcinogens and protect against oxidative damage. In humans, it is used as an anti-cancer agent and to lower blood cholesterol levels.
1. Natural remedy against flakes:
Flakes are caused by skin that is either too oily or too dry. Dandruff can be caused by environmental factors such as extreme weather or by bacteria and fungi growing in hair follicles. Dandruff causes itching, flaky skin and irritation on the scalp and neck.
Green tea can also help your dog get a fuller, thicker coat. A study published in Phytomedicine found that the tea antioxidant EGCG works to accelerate hair growth. The antioxidant helps stimulate skin cells in hair follicles, which activates hair growth. Polyphenols in tea also help accelerate cell turnover, which promotes the growth of new hair and supports the regeneration of damaged hair follicles.
2. Combat aging:
The antioxidants in green tea can help prevent premature aging. This is usually caused by damage that free radicals cause to body cells. Green tea contains a specific antioxidant known as epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG. Scientific studies show that this tea antioxidant effectively rejuvenates dying skin cells, and EGCG works effectively to reactivate the skin cell renewal process, giving dull skin a more beautiful glow.
Green tea is packed with vitamin B and vitamin E, two essential compounds for skin health. Vitamin B helps maintain collagen production, which increases skin elasticity. Collagen is one of the most important compounds in anti-aging products because it firms the skin. Vitamin E promotes cell renewal. This vitamin helps hydrate and nourish the skin.
3. Dental health:
Green tea promotes oral health through compounds such as catechins, which inhibit the growth of bacteria and thus reduce plaque. The polyphenols in green tea have anti-inflammatory effects, which is beneficial for supporting healthy gums. Some types of green tea naturally contain fluoride, which helps strengthen tooth enamel. With antibacterial properties, it also helps combat bad breath. For example, Streptococcus mutans is a bacterium associated with plaque formation.
4. Weight management:
Green tea supports fat burning by stimulating metabolism and promoting the breakdown of fat for energy. The substance EGCG in green tea improves fat oxidation by increasing the activity of relevant enzymes. In addition, green tea can improve physical performance by mobilizing fatty acids and has antioxidant properties that can improve insulin sensitivity. It also contributes to thermogenesis, resulting in an increase in calorie burning. Although green tea offers some fat burning benefits, it is essential to combine it with a healthy diet and regular exercise for effective weight management.