# Shizuoka Sencha Green Tea (Camellia sinensis 'Shizuoka Sencha')

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/shizuoka-sencha-green-tea
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-02
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Tea Cultivars
**Also Known As:** Camellia sinensis 'Shizuoka Sencha', Shizuoka Green Tea, Japanese Sencha, Shizuoka Prefecture Sencha, Sencha from Shizuoka, Steamed Green Tea Shizuoka, Shizuoka-cha

## Overview

Shizuoka Sencha is a Japanese green tea cultivar (Camellia sinensis) grown in Shizuoka Prefecture, rich in the catechin epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which scavenges free radicals and inhibits LDL [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Its bioactive polyphenols interact with oxidative stress pathways, offering antioxidant and potential [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) protective effects supported primarily by in vitro evidence.

## Health Benefits

• [Antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant): EGCG demonstrates DPPH radical scavenging (EC50 0.03-0.10 mol/mol) in vitro studies, though human trials lacking
• LDL protection: Catechins inhibit LDL lipid peroxidation at 0.1 μg/mL in vitro, but no human clinical evidence provided
• Mineral supplementation: Contains 92-151 mg/L potassium and 35-69 mg/L sodium in infusions, though clinical significance unstudied
• Polyphenol content: Provides 117-442 mg/L EGCG and 203-471 mg/L EGC in standard infusions, but bioavailability data incomplete
• Traditional support: Historically used for antioxidant and [neuroprotective effect](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)s, though specific clinical trials for Shizuoka variant absent

## Mechanism of Action

EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), the dominant catechin in Shizuoka Sencha, donates hydrogen atoms to neutralize DPPH and hydroxyl free radicals with an EC50 of 0.03–0.10 mol/mol in vitro, functioning as a chain-breaking antioxidant. At concentrations as low as 0.1 μg/mL, catechins intercalate into LDL phospholipid membranes and inhibit copper-mediated [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) by chelating pro-oxidant metal ions and scavenging peroxyl radicals. Additionally, EGCG modulates NF-κB signaling and downregulates [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s such as TNF-α and IL-6, though these pathways have not been confirmed in robust human trials for this specific cultivar.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for Shizuoka Sencha specifically is limited to in vitro assays; no cultivar-specific randomized controlled trials have been published. Broader green tea catechin research includes meta-analyses of 14–17 RCTs (n=1,000–2,000 participants) showing modest LDL reductions of 2–5 mg/dL with daily EGCG intakes of 200–400 mg. Observational data from Japanese cohort studies (e.g., Ohsaki cohort, n=40,530) associate habitual green tea consumption with reduced [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) mortality, though causality is unconfirmed. The [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and mineral supplementation claims for this cultivar rely on compositional analysis and extrapolation from general Camellia sinensis research, making the strength of evidence preliminary.

## Nutritional Profile

Shizuoka Sencha Green Tea infusion (per 100 mL brewed at 70-80°C, 2g/200mL): Macronutrients are negligible — calories ~1-2 kcal, protein <0.1g, carbohydrates <0.1g, fat 0g. Key bioactive compounds: Total catechins 120-180 mg/100mL, comprising EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) 60-90 mg/100mL (dominant catechin, ~50-60% of total), EGC (epigallocatechin) 15-30 mg/100mL, ECG (epicatechin gallate) 10-25 mg/100mL, EC (epicatechin) 8-15 mg/100mL. L-theanine 20-45 mg/100mL (umami-associated amino acid, bioavailability ~95% oral absorption). Caffeine 20-35 mg/100mL. Chlorophyll 3-8 mg/100mL (shaded early-harvest leaves increase this). Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) 5-12 mg/100mL, partially degraded at steeping temperatures above 80°C. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) ~0.01 mg/100mL. Minerals per 100mL infusion: potassium 92-151 mg, sodium 35-69 mg, magnesium 2-4 mg, calcium 1-3 mg, manganese 0.3-0.5 mg, fluoride 0.1-0.3 mg. Total polyphenols 150-220 mg GAE/100mL. Bioavailability notes: EGCG oral bioavailability is low (~1-5%) due to intestinal efflux and colonic degradation; fasting consumption increases absorption ~3-fold. L-theanine crosses the blood-brain barrier efficiently. Catechin absorption is reduced by milk protein binding. Shizuoka region's volcanic soil contributes to elevated mineral content compared to other Japanese sencha cultivars.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are specified for Shizuoka Sencha. Standard infusions provide 117-442 mg/L EGCG, 203-471 mg/L EGC, and 141-338 mg/L caffeine. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Shizuoka Sencha is generally well tolerated at typical beverage intakes (2–4 cups/day, ~100–300 mg EGCG), but high-dose EGCG supplements (>800 mg/day) have been associated with hepatotoxicity in case reports and clinical trials. The caffeine content (approximately 20–40 mg per 200 mL serving) may interact with adenosine receptor antagonism, potentiate stimulant medications, and elevate [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) or heart rate in sensitive individuals. EGCG can inhibit intestinal absorption of iron by forming insoluble complexes, reducing non-heme iron bioavailability by up to 25%; individuals with iron-deficiency anemia should consume Sencha away from iron-rich meals. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit intake due to caffeine exposure and potential interference with folate [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) mediated by EGCG inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase.

## Scientific Research

No specific human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses were found for Shizuoka Sencha itself; all evidence pertains to general green tea studies. The research references Shizuoka University studies on catechin bioavailability and [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) links but provides no trial specifics, sample sizes, or PMIDs.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Green tea from Camellia sinensis, including Japanese Sencha variants, has been used in Traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries as a refreshing beverage with purported [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and [neuroprotective effect](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)s. Shizuoka's production leverages natural soil advantages without heavy chemical inputs.

## Synergistic Combinations

L-theanine, vitamin C, quercetin, zinc, selenium

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much EGCG is in Shizuoka Sencha green tea?

Shizuoka Sencha typically contains 100–200 mg of total catechins per 200 mL brewed cup, with EGCG representing roughly 50–60% of that fraction, yielding approximately 50–120 mg EGCG per serving. Actual content varies with brewing temperature, steeping time, and harvest season, with spring first-flush (ichibancha) generally producing higher catechin concentrations than later harvests.

### Does Shizuoka Sencha lower cholesterol?

In vitro studies show Shizuoka Sencha catechins inhibit LDL lipid peroxidation at concentrations as low as 0.1 μg/mL, suggesting a protective mechanism against oxidized LDL. Meta-analyses of broader green tea catechin RCTs report modest LDL reductions of 2–5 mg/dL, but no human clinical trial has tested Shizuoka Sencha specifically for cholesterol outcomes, so direct clinical evidence is currently lacking.

### What minerals does Shizuoka Sencha green tea contain?

Shizuoka Sencha provides trace minerals including manganese, potassium, and fluoride, with fluoride content particularly notable at approximately 0.1–0.3 mg per cup, contributing to dental enamel remineralization. The mineral profile is influenced by the volcanic soil composition of Shizuoka Prefecture, but quantities per serving are generally too small to constitute significant supplementation relative to recommended daily intakes.

### Is Shizuoka Sencha safe to drink every day?

Daily consumption of 2–4 cups is considered safe for most healthy adults based on the long-term consumption history in Japanese populations and current toxicological data. However, individuals sensitive to caffeine, those on blood-thinning medications like warfarin (EGCG may have mild antiplatelet effects), or those with liver conditions should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before regular high-volume consumption.

### How does Shizuoka Sencha differ from other Japanese green teas?

Shizuoka Sencha is a specific cultivar grown in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan's largest green tea-producing region, and is processed using steam-fixing (not pan-firing) to halt oxidation, preserving a higher catechin and chlorophyll content compared to Chinese green teas. Compared to matcha, Shizuoka Sencha involves infusing whole leaves rather than consuming ground leaf powder, resulting in lower per-serving EGCG exposure (50–120 mg vs. 100–200 mg for matcha) but also lower caffeine and L-theanine intake.

### What is the difference between Shizuoka Sencha and other sencha varieties in terms of growing conditions?

Shizuoka Sencha is cultivated in Japan's Shizuoka Prefecture, which offers specific altitude, temperature, and soil conditions that influence the tea's flavor profile and catechin concentration compared to sencha from other regions. The cooler mountain climate and volcanic soil of Shizuoka are believed to enhance chlorophyll and amino acid (L-theanine) content, though regional variations in processing also play a significant role. These terroir factors can result in Shizuoka Sencha having a slightly sweeter, more umami-rich taste than sencha from lower-altitude or warmer Japanese regions.

### Can Shizuoka Sencha green tea interact with blood thinners or anticoagulant medications?

While Shizuoka Sencha contains vitamin K (from polyphenol-rich leaves), the amount present in typical tea infusions is unlikely to significantly interfere with warfarin or other anticoagulants in most individuals. However, those taking blood thinners should maintain consistent consumption patterns and consult their healthcare provider, as large or sudden increases in green tea intake could theoretically affect medication efficacy. Individual responses vary based on baseline vitamin K intake and medication dosing.

### How should Shizuoka Sencha be brewed to maximize polyphenol extraction?

Shizuoka Sencha is typically brewed at 50–70°C (122–158°F) for 1–3 minutes to balance polyphenol extraction with flavor quality, as higher temperatures can increase bitterness and potentially degrade heat-sensitive catechins. Shorter steeping times (1–2 minutes) at lower temperatures tend to preserve delicate flavors while still delivering meaningful catechin content, whereas longer steeps at higher temperatures may extract additional polyphenols but often result in astringency. Using fresh, filtered water and high-quality loose leaves (rather than tea bags) generally yields higher polyphenol levels.

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