# Epigallocatechin **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/epigallocatechin **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-28 **Evidence Score:** 2 / 10 **Category:** Compound **Also Known As:** EGC, (-)-Epigallocatechin, 5,7,3',4',5'-Pentahydroxyflavan-3-ol, 2-(3,4,5-trihydroxyphenyl)-3,4-dihydro-2H-chromene-3,5,7-triol, Green tea catechin, Catechin polyphenol ## Overview Epigallocatechin (EGC) is a flavan-3-ol catechin found predominantly in green tea that exerts antioxidant effects by scavenging [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and chelating metal ions. It inhibits viral replication and demonstrates antineoplastic activity primarily through modulation of oxidative signaling pathways and enzyme inhibition. ## Health Benefits • Acts as a strong inhibitor of HIV replication in vitro, indicating potential [antiviral](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) properties (Preliminary evidence). • Exhibits powerful [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), contributing to reduced oxidative stress (Preliminary evidence). • Demonstrates antineoplastic properties in plant extracts (Preliminary evidence). • May provide [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects due to its antioxidative capabilities (Preliminary evidence). • Supports general health as part of the polyphenol content in green tea extracts (based on related catechin studies, Preliminary evidence). ## Mechanism of Action Epigallocatechin neutralizes [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s by donating hydrogen atoms from its polyhydroxyl groups, directly scavenging superoxide anion, hydroxyl radicals, and peroxyl radicals. It inhibits HIV replication in vitro partly by interfering with reverse transcriptase activity and disrupting viral entry mechanisms at the host cell membrane. Additionally, EGC modulates pro-inflammatory signaling by inhibiting NF-κB pathway activation and suppressing cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression, contributing to its antineoplastic and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. ## Clinical Summary Most evidence for epigallocatechin derives from in vitro cell culture studies and animal models rather than robust human clinical trials, placing its benefits firmly in the preliminary category. In vitro studies have demonstrated HIV-1 reverse transcriptase inhibition and cytotoxic effects against several cancer cell lines including HeLa and MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Human data are largely extrapolated from green tea intervention trials, where the broader catechin fraction — not isolated EGC — is studied, limiting attribution of specific outcomes to EGC alone. [Antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) biomarker improvements observed in green tea studies (e.g., reduced 8-OHdG urinary levels) cannot be solely credited to EGC without isolated compound trials. ## Nutritional Profile Epigallocatechin (EGC) is a pure polyphenolic compound (flavan-3-ol/catechin subclass), not a whole food, so traditional macronutrient/micronutrient profiling does not apply. Molecular formula: C15H14O7, molecular weight: 306.27 g/mol. As a bioactive compound, it contains no protein, fat, or fiber intrinsically. Key structural features include a trihydroxylated B-ring and a dihydroxylated A-ring with a hydroxyl group at the C-3 position (distinguishing it from its gallate ester form, EGCG). Found naturally in green tea (Camellia sinensis) at approximately 5–10 mg per gram of dry leaf weight, typically lower in concentration than its more studied ester form EGCG (which ranges 50–100 mg/g dry leaf). Also present in smaller quantities in white tea, oolong tea, fruits such as apples and grapes, and certain legumes. Bioavailability is limited due to poor intestinal absorption, susceptibility to oxidation at alkaline pH, and extensive first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management); oral bioavailability estimated at less than 5% in human studies. Undergoes methylation, glucuronidation, and sulfation by phase II enzymes in the intestinal wall and liver. Colonic microbiota further metabolize EGC into phenolic acids (e.g., 5-(3,4,5-trihydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone). Consumption of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the same matrix has been shown to partially stabilize EGC and modestly improve bioavailability. No caloric, mineral, or vitamin content is attributable to EGC as an isolated compound. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges or specific forms for epigallocatechin are available. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Epigallocatechin is generally regarded as safe when consumed through dietary green tea, but concentrated supplement doses above 800 mg/day of total catechins have been associated with hepatotoxicity in rare case reports. It may inhibit iron absorption by chelating non-heme iron in the gut, posing a concern for individuals with iron-deficiency anemia. EGC can interact with anticoagulants such as warfarin by mildly inhibiting platelet aggregation, and caution is advised when combining with other [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) supplements at high doses. Safety data in pregnant and breastfeeding women are insufficient, and conservative avoidance of high-dose supplementation during pregnancy is recommended. ## Scientific Research The research lacks specific human clinical trials or meta-analyses focused solely on epigallocatechin. Most evidence pertains to its gallate ester, EGCG, with no PMIDs available for EGC-specific studies. ## Historical & Cultural Context Epigallocatechin is a component of Spondias mombin, which is used in Nigerian and West African folk medicine for treating severe infections and health disorders. However, specific traditional uses of EGC itself are not documented. ## Synergistic Combinations Epicatechin, EGCG, Vitamin C, Quercetin, Resveratrol ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the difference between epigallocatechin (EGC) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)? Epigallocatechin (EGC) lacks the gallate ester group attached at the 3-position of the C-ring that defines EGCG. EGCG is generally considered more bioactive and is present in higher concentrations in green tea, while EGC is less studied but shares antioxidant and antiviral properties through similar hydroxyl-group-mediated radical scavenging mechanisms. ### Does epigallocatechin have antiviral properties against HIV? In vitro studies have shown that epigallocatechin inhibits HIV-1 replication, partly by interfering with reverse transcriptase activity and disrupting viral binding to host cell receptors. However, these findings come exclusively from laboratory cell studies, and no human clinical trials have confirmed antiviral efficacy of isolated EGC against HIV in vivo. ### How much epigallocatechin is in a cup of green tea? A standard 250 mL cup of brewed green tea contains approximately 5–10 mg of epigallocatechin, though this varies widely by tea cultivar, brewing temperature, and steeping time. Higher-grade Japanese green teas such as matcha can deliver significantly greater total catechin content, with EGC comprising roughly 5–10% of total catechins in most preparations. ### Can epigallocatechin help with cancer prevention? Epigallocatechin has demonstrated antineoplastic properties in plant extract studies and in vitro models, including inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in cell lines such as MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Evidence remains preliminary, as no randomized controlled trials have isolated EGC specifically as a cancer-preventive agent in humans, and current anticancer claims cannot be substantiated beyond laboratory findings. ### Is epigallocatechin safe to take as a supplement daily? Epigallocatechin consumed through green tea is considered safe for most adults, but isolated catechin supplements delivering high doses above 800 mg total catechins per day have been linked to rare cases of liver toxicity. Individuals with iron-deficiency anemia, those on warfarin or antiplatelet therapy, and pregnant women should consult a healthcare provider before using concentrated EGC or green tea extract supplements. ### What foods naturally contain epigallocatechin besides green tea? Epigallocatechin is found in various tea varieties, with white tea and oolong tea containing significant amounts, though generally less concentrated than green tea. It is also present in small quantities in certain fruits like apples and berries, as well as in some legumes and nuts. However, tea beverages remain the primary dietary source for obtaining meaningful quantities of this catechin. ### Does epigallocatechin absorption improve when taken with food or on an empty stomach? Epigallocatechin absorption may be enhanced when consumed with vitamin C or in the presence of certain fats, though research on optimal timing remains preliminary. Taking it with meals may reduce gastrointestinal irritation and potentially improve absorption compared to an empty stomach, though individual bioavailability can vary significantly. Pairing tea or supplements containing this compound with citrus or foods high in vitamin C may help maximize intestinal uptake. ### What does current research show about epigallocatechin's effectiveness compared to EGCG for antioxidant benefits? While both epigallocatechin and EGCG are potent antioxidants, EGCG is generally recognized as the more extensively studied and potentially more bioactive catechin form in clinical literature. Epigallocatechin demonstrates strong free-radical scavenging activity in laboratory studies, though direct head-to-head human trials comparing their efficacy remain limited. Current evidence suggests EGCG may have a slight advantage in certain applications, but epigallocatechin alone contributes meaningfully to the overall antioxidant benefits of tea consumption. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*