New Study Explains The Antihypertensive Properties Of Green Tea And Black Tea
Both green tea and black tea have been investigated for their medicinal properties. A recent study determined that its compounds relax blood vessels and promote blood pressure control.
The antihypertensive properties of green tea and black tea have been the subject of several investigations. Years ago, an article published in the Journal of Hypertension reported that the flavonoids contained in these beverages cause vasodilator and antioxidant effects.
Therefore, its regular consumption seems to be an adjunct to prevent cardiovascular diseases and associated complications. A recent study, conducted by researchers at the University of California at Irvine, corroborates these effects and explains their mechanism.
Antihypertensive Properties of Green Tea and Black Tea Explained in New Study
First of all, it should be remembered that both green tea and black tea come from the Camellia sinensis plant , known for its medicinal properties. The difference between the two is that black tea oxidizes and green tea does not. Still, their composition is similar and both share benefits.
A study published in The Journal of Nutrition details that the two varieties of teas have an equally effective antioxidant capacity. Because of this, both have positive effects on blood vessel function. What is known about it?
In research recently published in Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry , a group of scientists at the University of California, Irvine, evaluated the antihypertensive properties of green tea and black tea. Experts made a finding that could explain why these drinks help lower blood pressure.
Specifically, they determined that two flavonoid compounds in these teas activate ion channel proteins in the wall of blood vessels, allowing them to relax. To be more exact, it is epicatechin gallate and epigallocatechin gallate-3 that activate a specific type of protein known as ‘KCNQ5’.
This protein, which is found in the smooth muscle that lines the blood vessels, favors the dissemination of potassium ions outside the cells to reduce cell excitability. In turn, this leads to the relaxation of blood vessels, which explains the antihypertensive effects of tea.