Extract & Compound · Compound

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG)

Provisional Strong Scorecompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant and bioactive catechin in green tea, comprising 50-80% of total catechins. It works primarily by scavenging free radicals, modulating cellular signaling pathways, and inhibiting inflammatory enzymes like cyclooxygenase-2.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryExtract & Compound

GroupCompound

Public Score StatusProvisional Strong

Primary KeywordEGCG benefits

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Potent antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress, reducing cellular damage by up to 50%. - Supports weight management by enhancing fat oxidation, aiding in the reduction of body fat and improving metabolic rate. - Boosts brain health by protecting neurons from oxidative damage, potentially improving cognitive function and memory. - Enhances cardiovascular health by reducing LDL cholesterol and improving blood vessel function. - Supports immune health by enhancing the activity of T-cells, providing better defense against infections. - Promotes skin health by reducing UV-induced damage, leading to a more youthful and radiant appearance. - Aids in cancer prevention by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, offering protective benefits.

Origin & History

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) — origin

Natural habitat

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) is a catechin found predominantly in green tea leaves. It is extracted through water or solvent extraction processes to concentrate the active compound.

“EGCG has been a key component of traditional Asian diets, particularly in Japan and China, where green tea consumption is linked to longevity.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Numerous RCTs and meta-analyses support EGCG's role in weight management and cardiovascular health. Its neuroprotective effects are also well-documented in animal studies.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Rich in catechins, particularly EGCG. - Contains other polyphenols and antioxidants. - Calorie-free and naturally caffeine-containing.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

EGCG activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) to enhance fat oxidation and glucose metabolism. It inhibits catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), extending norepinephrine activity for increased thermogenesis. EGCG also modulates nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling to reduce inflammatory cytokine production.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Meta-analyses of 11 randomized controlled trials show EGCG supplementation (300-400mg daily) increases fat oxidation by 17% and reduces body weight by 1.3kg over 12 weeks. Brain health studies demonstrate 200-300mg daily improves cognitive function scores by 15-20% in healthy adults. However, most studies are short-term (8-12 weeks) with small sample sizes (30-100 participants), requiring larger long-term trials for definitive conclusions.

Also Known As

(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallateEGCGGreen tea catechinEpicatechin gallateTea polyphenolCatechin-3-gallateGreen tea extract active compound

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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