Polyphenols (Camellia sinensis) Background

Polyphenols from Camellia sinensis, commonly known as tea, have a rich history dating back over 5,000 years to 2737 BCE[1].

These compounds, particularly catechins, were first isolated in the early 19th century, with their chemical structures identified in 1910[1].

Camellia sinensis developed these stimulating chemical compounds to attract primates, eventually leading to human consumption and cultivation[1].

Over millennia, humans have held Camellia sinensis in high regard, with its polyphenols becoming the subject of extensive research revealing their potential in treating numerous diseases[1][5].

Polyphenols (Camellia sinensis) Systemic Applications

Polyphenols from Camellia sinensis demonstrate remarkable versatility in systemic applications, ranging from cancer prevention to cardiovascular health[2][4].

They have shown efficacy in ameliorating cancer insurgences, diabetes mellitus, cardiac complications, and oxidative stress-mediated malfunctions[5].

These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, making them useful in treating various inflammatory processes, including chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD)[2][6].

Green tea polyphenols have also demonstrated potential in protecting against fine dust particle-induced cellular damage in airway epithelial cells[2].

Polyphenols (Camellia sinensis) for Brain and Cognition

Polyphenols from Camellia sinensis, particularly catechins and L-theanine, have shown promising effects on cognitive function and neuroprotection[4].

Studies suggest that these compounds may contribute to cognitive longevity and could be beneficial in treating several neuronal diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease[3][4].

The antioxidant properties of tea polyphenols help protect against oxidative damage of mitochondrial enzymes and may prevent apoptosis in neurodegenerative conditions[3][4].

Polyphenols (Camellia sinensis) for Eye and Vision

Polyphenols from Camellia sinensis have demonstrated significant benefits for eye health, particularly in preventing and managing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts[3][4].

These compounds help shield the retina from oxidative stress and inflammation, both known risk factors in the progression of AMD[3].

The anti-angiogenic activity of tea polyphenols has been shown to reduce the proliferation of endothelial cells, their migration, and the formation of new capillaries in vitro, which is particularly relevant for wet AMD[3][4].

Studies have revealed that tea polyphenols may offer protection against common eye problems, such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD)[3][4].

Relevant quotes:

"Polyphenols modulate inflammatory response by regulating pro-inflammatory cytokines synthesis and gene regulation, we expected the ..." - Nature[2]

"In this review, we analyze the potential effects of polyphenol compounds on some visual diseases, with a special focus on retinal degenerative diseases." - PMC[3]

Relevant NCBI article quotes:

"The history of tea began over 5,000 years ago in ancient China. Currently ... In an effort to discover more stable polyphenol proteasome inhibitors, we ..." - From "Tea polyphenols, their biological effects and potential molecular ..." (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3763709/)

"Preclinical studies highlighted the ability of green tea polyphenols to protect skin towards UV-induced damage and immunosuppression ." - From "Efficacy and Safety of Oral Green Tea Preparations in Skin Ailments" (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9370301/)

Functions supported or stimulated:

1. Antioxidant activity[2][3][4]

2. Anti-inflammatory effects[2][6]

3. Immune system modulation[2][4]

4. Neuroprotection[3][4]

5. Anti-angiogenic activity[3][4]

Related benefits:

1. Improved cognitive function and memory[3][4]

2. Enhanced eye health, particularly for AMD and cataracts[3][4]

3. Cancer prevention and treatment[4][5]

4. Cardiovascular health improvement[4]

5. Protection against UV-induced skin damage[6]

Source Information:

Botanical name: Camellia sinensis[1]

Typical content range: Green tea contains the highest content of tea polyphenols among 16 common tea leaves analyzed[11]

Common names:

1. Tea[1]

2. Green tea[2]

3. Black tea[5]

4. Oolong tea[5]

Citations:

[1] https://www.tea-and-coffee.com/blog/camellia-sinensis

[2] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-81989-9

[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8200069/

[4] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/camellia-sinensis-leaf-extract

[5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3763709/

[6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9370301/

[7] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2019/9783429

[8] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6826564/

[9] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-17184-1

[10] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9820274/

[11] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9231383/

[12] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2012/560682