Green tea: A biofactory for antioxidant compounds

Abstract

Green tea (Camellia sinensis)is one of the most popular and widely consumed beverages in the world second to water. Although most consumer does not aware that green tea contains variety of bioactive compounds that provide health benefits such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-carcinogenic, anti-hypertensive, anti-proliferative, anti-thrombogenic, and lipid-lowering effects. However, so far most of the health benefits of green tea based on the antioxidant activities of the detected compounds. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) from catechins is the most active polyphenols of green tea. Since this plant is famous and some consumed it to improve their health, efficient extraction techniques of high yield and short time are needed. The process from obtaining raw materials and extraction process must not alter the efficacy and potency of the green tea bioactive compounds. Currently, ultrasound assisted techniques with combination of agitation system are used the extraction yield. In addition, bioavailability and mode of deliveries to body are important to ensure effective absorption and delivery to targeted part.