Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) (Epigallocatechin-3-gallate)

Table of Contents

Other names

Green Tea Extract (Standardized for EGCG)
Pure EGCG Isolate
Camellia sinensis Polyphenols

Synopsis

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant and biologically active catechin found in green tea (Camellia sinensis), accounting for much of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and disease-preventive properties. As a polyphenol, EGCG has been widely studied for its effects on metabolism, cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, neuroprotection, and immune modulation.

EGCG exerts powerful biological effects through multiple mechanisms:

  • Antioxidant activity: Neutralizes free radicals and protects cells from oxidative damage
  • Anti-inflammatory effects: Inhibits pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2)
  • Cardiovascular benefits: Improves endothelial function, reduces LDL oxidation, and may modestly lower blood pressure
  • Metabolic support: Enhances fat oxidation, supports weight management, and improves insulin sensitivity
  • Neuroprotective potential: May help guard against cognitive decline, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain
  • Cancer prevention: Shown in studies to inhibit tumor growth, promote apoptosis in cancer cells, and reduce angiogenesis
  • Antiviral and antimicrobial activity: Interferes with viral replication and supports immune defense

EGCG is most concentrated in green tea extracts and matcha, but is also present in smaller amounts in white and oolong teas. It is often used in capsules, powders, or functional beverages, either as a standalone supplement or in fat-burning, anti-aging, and immune-support formulas. Typical supplemental dosages range from 200–800 mg daily.

Historical Use
While EGCG was not isolated and studied until the 20th century, its source—green tea—has been consumed for over 4,000 years, particularly in China, Japan, and other parts of East Asia, for both medicinal and ceremonial purposes.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), green tea (Lu Cha) was valued for:

  • Clearing heat and toxins
  • Aiding digestion and fat metabolism
  • Enhancing mental alertness and clearing the head
  • Preventing stagnation and supporting longevity

In Japanese culture, green tea became central to the Chanoyu tea ceremony, and was revered for promoting vitality, clarity, and discipline, especially among monks and scholars.

Historically, green tea was used to:

  • Prevent infection and bad breath
  • Support liver function and detoxification
  • Help with weight regulation and fluid retention

Today, EGCG is widely used in modern integrative health, with expanding research supporting its role in:

  • Metabolic syndrome and weight loss
  • Cancer prevention and adjunct therapy
  • Skin health and UV protection
  • Immune resilience and antiviral protocols

Its ability to cross multiple systems—neurological, cardiovascular, metabolic, and immune—makes EGCG one of the most versatile and respected botanical compounds in modern nutraceutical science.

Uses: Health Conditions

None

Body Systems

Brain (Science)
Circulatory System (Science)
Immune System (Science)
Liver (Science)
Mitochondria (Science)