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Camellia (Camellia sinensis syn. Thea sinensis)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Theaceae
  • Common Names: Tea Plant, Green Tea, Black Tea, White Tea, Oolong Tea
  • Parts Used: Leaves, buds

Description

Camellia sinensis is a small evergreen shrub native to East Asia, particularly China and India. It is the source of all true teas, including green, black, white, and oolong, with differences arising from processing methods. The plant is rich in polyphenols, catechins, and antioxidants, making it highly valued in traditional and modern medicine for its stimulant, cardiovascular, and neuroprotective properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for digestive health and as an energizing tonic.
  • Historically consumed as a daily beverage to support longevity and overall vitality.
  • Applied topically for wound healing and skin health.

Constituents

  • Polyphenols (catechins, tannins)
  • Caffeine
  • Theanine (an amino acid)
  • Flavonoids
  • Saponins

Actions

  • Antioxidant
  • Stimulant (caffeine)
  • Astringent
  • Neuroprotective
  • Cardioprotective
  • Anti-inflammatory

Medicinal Uses

1. Cognitive and Nervous System Support:
Green tea is known to enhance focus, alertness, and memory while promoting relaxation through the amino acid theanine.

2. Cardiovascular Health:
The flavonoids in tea support heart health by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and helping regulate blood pressure.

3. Antioxidant and Anti-Aging Benefits:
High polyphenol content helps combat oxidative stress, protecting against chronic diseases and cellular aging.

4. Digestive and Metabolic Support:
Tea aids digestion, supports gut health, and helps regulate metabolism, making it beneficial for weight management.

5. Skin and Wound Healing:
Topical applications of tea extracts reduce skin inflammation, acne, and minor wounds.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1 tsp of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 3-5 minutes (green tea), 5-7 minutes (black tea). Drink up to 3 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-4 ml of tincture taken up to 2 times daily.

Poultice or Wash:

  • Strong tea infusion applied externally for skin irritations and wounds.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Caffeine Sensitivity: May cause jitters, insomnia, or palpitations in sensitive individuals.
  • Iron Absorption: Tea can inhibit iron absorption; avoid drinking with meals if iron levels are low.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Moderate intake is generally safe, but high doses of caffeine should be avoided.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Cooling and drying; clears heat and stagnation while invigorating energy.
  • Ayurveda: Depending on preparation, can balance Kapha (stimulating) or Pitta (cooling in green tea form).

Combinations

  • For Cognitive Support: Combine with ginseng and gotu kola.
  • For Heart Health: Combine with hawthorn and garlic.
  • For Skin Health: Combine with calendula and chamomile.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Young leaves and buds are collected and processed based on the type of tea (green, black, oolong, etc.).
  • Drying: Leaves are dried and oxidized to varying degrees depending on the tea type.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Camellia sinensis’s role in cognitive enhancement, cardiovascular protection, and metabolic regulation, supporting its traditional use.

Tea remains one of the most widely used medicinal plants globally, offering benefits for brain function, heart health, and overall well-being.