Unoxidized leaves of Camellia sinensis, rich in catechin polyphenols (particularly EGCG - epigallocatechin-3-gallate) that exert powerful epigenetic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Green tea is a primary intervention in cPNI for periodontal disease, neurodegenerative disease prevention, and telomere protection.
Green tea catechins work through multiple mechanisms: (1) Potent gingipain inhibition—EGCG and EC reduce P. gingivalis Rgp and Kgp activity to <10%, preventing iron dysregulation cascade and periodontal-systemic disease links, (2) Epigenetic modulation of hTERT (telomerase) expression via DNA methylation changes, supporting telomere maintenance and cellular longevity, (3) AhR activation supporting gut barrier function, (4) NRF2 pathway activation for antioxidant defense, (5) AMPK activation for metabolic health, (6) Inhibition of NFκB reducing inflammatory signaling. Catechins are heat-stable but light-sensitive; require fat for absorption.
Green tea is prescribed in cPNI protocols for: (1) Periodontal disease—direct inhibition of gingipain enzymes breaks the P. gingivalis-iron-Alzheimer's pathway, (2) Neurodegenerative disease prevention—epigenetic effects on telomerase and anti-inflammatory properties protect brain, (3) Metabolic health—AMPK activation and insulin sensitization, (4) Oral hygiene—used as mouth rinse for antimicrobial effects. Must be combined with adequate dietary fat for catechin absorption.