Green Tea Is More Effective Vaccines

At the University of Shizuoka in Japan conducted an interesting trial, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, with 200 health workers, who administered them a green tea supplement (378 mg catechins and 210 mg theanine). [1]

 The studied outcomes were the incidence of clinically definite according flu symptoms, and lab confirmed influenza viral origin (Influenza). Catechins and theanine green tea achieved a reduction of 75% of clinically diagnosed flu, a figure which rose to over 80% when the flu was confirmed in the laboratory. This study confirms the findings of other prospective study at the university and show that green tea is effective in preventing influenza [2].

Although more studies are needed to provide greater statistical robustness, green tea is even more effective than the vaccine, according to data that can be inferred from a systematic review published in The Lancet. [3]

Cate chins have antiviral activity, to liaise with the virus  preventing its attachment to host cells. The epigallo cate chin gallate (EGCG) found in green tea appears largely responsible for this. Flu has been found effective in older people with mouthwash and gargle green tea extracts [2].

The infusions are best choice than a green tea extract, since they are treated with aqueous-alcoholic compounds can be aggressive to the liver, and the amount of cate chins in a supplement are easily achievable with 3 or 4 cups of tea per day (or a pair of fully charged cups). Alternatively, take a half dose in the form of green tea supplement during the winter months (200 mg) together with a couple of cups of tea. Theanine in turn is best taken in supplement form, as about 20 cups a day are needed to reach Shizuoka study dose (200 mg).