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Green tea (Camellia sinensis)
Description:
Green tea is made from the dried leaves of Camellia sinensis, an evergreen shrub. Green tea has a long history of use, dating back about 5,000 years ago in China. Green tea, black tea and oolong tea are all made from the same plant. Green tea is a source of caffeine..
Claims:
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Uses:These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
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Grade*
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Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer prevention, Diabetes, Fertility, High cholesterol
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C
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Dental cavity prevention, Heart attack prevention, Memory improvement
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C
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Prostate cancer (treatment), Weight loss, Anxiety, Menopausal symptoms
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C
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*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use; F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.
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Safety:
Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to caffeine or tannin should avoid green tea. Use cautiously with diabetes or liver disease.
Possible side effects:
Agitation, anxiety, arrhythmia (abnormal heartbeat), constipation, decreased blood sodium/potassium levels, delayed conception (in women who takes large amounts of caffeine), delirium, hives, increased urine, increased blood sodium/potassium levels, increased blood sugar levels, increased risk of bleeding, increased stomach acid, insomnia, low blood sugar levels, muscle spasm, psychological dependence, psychosis, seizure, skin rash, unstable bladder, worsened ulcer symptoms.
Possible interactions:
There are few studies of the interactions of green tea and drugs. However, green tea has caffeine, and there are many potential interactions with caffeine.
Ephedrine, other stimulants like nicotine, beta-adrenergic agonists like albuterol (Ventolin®), theophylline, drugs that increase caffeine blood levels or the length of time caffeine acts on the body, benzodiazepines like lorazepam (Ativan®), birth control pills, clozapine (Clozaril®), dipyridamole, Cafergot®, Excedrin®, phenylpropanolamine, codeine, ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®), diuretics like furosemide (Lasix®), doxorubicin, blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin®), other herbs and supplements with similar effects (like Cola nut, guarana, yerba mate, artichoke, celery, corn silk).
Dosing:
Adults (18 years and older):
100-750mg of green tea extract (GTE) are found in capsules.
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