EGCG (Green Tea Catechin)

Overview

EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is the most abundant and biologically active catechin polyphenol in green tea. It supports gut barrier integrity, modulates the microbiome by promoting beneficial bacteria and inhibiting harmful ones, and contributes to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. EGCG works synergistically with other green tea polyphenols and dietary components to support brain health, glucose regulation, and overall metabolic function.

Recipes

1 recipe containing this substance

Matcha Mitochondria Smoothie

Mitochondrial energising smoothie rich in polyphenols, magnesium, and antioxidants

Foods

1 food containing this substance

Green Tea

Source of EGCG, L-theanine, and polyphenols for cognitive and metabolic support

Biological Mechanisms and Implications

Biological Target	Therapeutic Areas	Mechanism of Action
Gut Microbiome	ADHD, Anxiety & GAD, Depression & MDD	Green tea catechins increase Faecalibacterium and Roseburia; inhibit Enterobacteriaceae; reduce NF-κB activation
Hormonal Response	ADHD, Anxiety & GAD	Supports HPA axis regulation and stress response
Inflammation	ADHD, Alzheimer's Disease, Anxiety & GAD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression & MDD	Polyphenol antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects; reduces inflammatory signaling
Oxidative Stress	ADHD, Alzheimer's Disease, Anxiety & GAD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression & MDD	Supports antioxidant defenses; part of antioxidant network
Stress Response	ADHD, Anxiety & GAD, Depression & MDD	—

References

• Green tea catechins (e.g., EGCG, EGC) contribute to visceral adipose tissue reduction and neuroprotective effects in Green Mediterranean Diet studies Zelicha et al. 2022
• Green Mediterranean Diet attenuated brain atrophy by ~50%, with glycemic control contributing to the neuroprotective signal, consistent with polyphenol–fibre–microbiome synergy Pachter et al. 2024
• Green tea catechins increase Faecalibacterium and Roseburia; inhibit Enterobacteriaceae; reduce NF-κB activation