Green Tea Extract (EGCG): EGCG is the active ingredient and water soluble component extracted from green tea, which has the highest content of tea catechins. Multiple studies have demonstrated that EGCG may play a role in protecting against free radical DNA damage; mitigate the effects of ionizing radiation and ultraviolet radiation; slow down lipid peroxidation; decrease serum cholesterol levels, LDL, VLDL, and triglycerides; interfere with the binding of cancer-causing agents to cellular DNA; help neutralize dietary carcinogens; work with enzymes and other antioxidants in the intestines, liver and lungs to prevent the activation of certain carcinogens before they damage DNA; and act as a free radical scavenger to combat the effects of pollution, sunlight and smoking and to help prevent premature wrinkling and aging of the skin. Since drinking as much as 20 cups of green tea a day have not been associated with any significant side effects, this ingredient has a very strong safety record. Its fields of application range from medicine and nutritional supplements to health foods, beverages and cosmetics.