When to take it
In the morning or during the day with food, never on an empty stomach; if it contains caffeine, not late in the afternoon.
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OtherWeak evidence
Green tea extract
Also known as: EGCG, catechins, Camellia sinensis
Green tea extract is a concentrate of catechins, mainly EGCG, often with naturally occurring caffeine. It is sold mainly to support fat burning and as an antioxidant.
What it is used for
- Slight increase in energy expenditure and weight loss – weak evidence, the effect is small
- Antioxidant protection – weak evidence for supplements
- Modest LDL reduction – weak to moderate evidence
Forms and how they differ
standardised extract (EGCG)
check the EGCG content per dose
decaffeinated extract
suitable if you are sensitive to caffeine
matcha / loose tea
lower concentration, the safer choice
Pairs well with
A balanced diet, exercise; green tea as a drink.
Do not combine / separate
Do not take on an empty stomach or with other fat burners and stimulants; keep a gap from iron, as catechins reduce its absorption.
Watch out for
Liver injury has been reported at high doses. Not suitable in pregnancy or while breastfeeding, or with liver or kidney disease. It may affect some medicines (e.g. for blood pressure, anticoagulants); consult your doctor.
Safety
The EU restricts EGCG intake from supplements to below 800 mg per day; do not exceed the label dose.
Practical tip
If you want catechins, 2–3 cups of green tea a day are safer than a concentrated extract.
Products containing Green tea extract 4
Green tea extract EGCGEGCG
Green tea extract 500 mgleaf · 500 mg / capsule
Green tea extract 400 mgstandardized EGCG · 400 mg / capsule
Green tea extractdecaffeinated EGCG
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check Green tea extract with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
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From the same group
AlfalfaNo evidenceAndrographisWeak evidenceAroniaWeak evidenceBarley grassWeak evidenceBee pollenWeak evidenceBeef organs (desiccated)Weak evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.