Epigallocatechin gallate

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is an antioxidant polyphenol flavonoid that belongs to the catechin family (Figure 1) and is mainly found in green tea.

Chemical structure of epigallocatechin consists of epigallocatechin bound with ester bond to gallic acid. Epigallocatechin belongs to the catechin family with two benzene rings and a dihydropyran heterocycle with hydroxyl group on carbon 3 - here bound to gallic acid by ester bond. Gallic acid is a trihydroxybenzoic acid and belongs to a family of phenolic acids.

Figure 1. Chemical structure of Epigallocatechin gallate.

Several studies have reported the benefits of EGCG in different diseases in vitro, such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, or cardiovascular diseases. However, more clinical studies are needed to establish a correct use of EGCG as a dietary supplement or treatment.