Theanine
Theanine
and caffeine are the same thing considering their composition. The most
important linkages are highly condensated tannins.
Caffeine is
contained in the tea leaf with a concentration of 1.5 - 4.5%. Thanks to
this, as well as its combination with the tannins, the tea receives its
unique soothing effect. The caffeine in the tea directly affects the
blood circulation of our central nerv system. Caffeine is bound to
other substances and builds a complex. There is bound and unbound
caffeine. Free caffeine dissolves within the first 90 seconds,
afterwards, the caffeine which is bound to the tannins dissolves. Due
to this, the tea becomes bitter but also the absorption of the caffeine
in stomach and intestine is slowed. Tea also contains ethereal oils,
minerals, trace elements and a high portion of vitamins. Young tea
leaves contain more caffeine while older tea leaves contain a higher
proportion of tannin.
Caffeine content:
170 ml Darjeeling 77 mg
170 ml Fuji Tea 78 mg
170 ml Gunpowder 61 mg
170 ml Bancha Tea 22 mg
150 ml Coffee 123 mg
300 ml Coke 27 mg
A maximum of 85% of the caffeine content of the leaves can be removed.
Further substances in green tea:
alkaloids: caffeine, theophyllin
tannins/flavonole)/
(polyphenols): catechin, tannin
minerals: fluoride, iron, magnesium, nickel, zinc, copper
vitamins: C, A1, B1, B2, B12, E, P
Amino acids: theanine
aroma substances
Effects of green tea:
vitalising
catches free radicals 20 x better than vitamine E
removes bad breath
normalises elevated blood sugar
prevents tooth decay (1 cup of green tea per day decreases caries by 50% due to its fluoride content)
normalises high blood pressure
reduces the cholesterol level
reduces threat of cardiac arrest
healthy during pregnancies due to its high zinc content
the contained Epigallo-Catechingallat (EGCG) hinders the development of metastases and cancer cells