Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Tea-leaf extracts are widely consumed and generally safe at dietary levels. However, EFSA (2018) concluded that EGCG-containing green tea extracts at ≥800 mg EGCG/day in supplement form are linked to hepatotoxicity.
What it is
Extract of leaves from Camellia sinensis, the tea plant; contains catechins (especially EGCG) and caffeine.
Antioxidant, flavoring; functional ingredient in beverages and supplements.
Why it's flagged
- hepatotoxicity at high EGCG doses (≥800 mg/day) in supplement form
- caffeine content
What regulators actually say
"Doses of EGCG of 800 mg/day or above as food supplements have been associated with cases of hepatotoxicity."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Tea is GRAS as a beverage; concentrated extracts in supplements regulated under DSHEA.
European Union — EFSA
EFSA 2018 — green tea catechin extracts ≥800 mg EGCG/day raise hepatotoxicity concern.
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app