South Korean cosmetics conglomerate Amorepacific’s R&D Center has launched the Green Tea Probiotics Research Center to further study a newly found lactobacillus in Jeju island’s organic green tea variety. The move seeks to develop innovative products including the green tea probiotic strain in health, food and cosmetics. Moreover, the company aims to globally expand competitive microorganism research and its related technologies.

Amorepacific pegs green tea as the “gold standard of anti-aging ingredients” due to its wealth of antioxidants. Catechins specifically, a superior antioxidant, can improve skin clarity, texture and elasticity. “The most abundant and hard-working catechin in green tea is epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which reduces free radicals on the skin, the damaging particles responsible for fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging. By scavenging free radical buildup, EGCG improves the condition of the skin, preserving a glowing, youthful look,” the company states.

The company also highlights that Jeju makes for an optimal location to carry out additional research on the skin health benefits of green tea, as the island’s volcanic soil, ideal climate and plentiful sunlight nourish the company’s exclusive species of green tea.

In terms of studies conducted at the research center, the newly discovered probiotic strain Lactobacillus plantarum has been found to survive and persist better in the intestinal tract than conventional strains. Moreover, the probiotic strain has excellent antibacterial, antibiotic resistant properties, according to genome analysis. Company-issued research also confirmed that the probiotic strain from green tea leaves decreases the level of inflammation factors in the stomach.

Health benefits from the inside
Green tea’s potential health benefits are growingly recognized by health and wellness players and supported by research. Recently, a US study found that in combination with regular exercise, green tea extract consumption can support liver and intestinal health. The new research center aims to expand its research capacities to the field of microbiomes, the company affirms.

Additional research provides ample evidence of the various health benefits of green tea. Regular team consumption can not only help promote cognitive function, but also improve life expectancy and overall health. A Chinese study published last month revealed that habitual tea drinkers, who maintained their habit, had a lower risk of incident heart disease, stroke and all-cause death compared to people who do not regularly consume tea.

“Tea, especially green tea, is a rich source of flavonoids, including mainly epicatechin, catechin, and EGCG. Previous mechanism studies have revealed that these bioactive compounds can attenuate oxidative stress, relieve inflammation, enhance endothelial and cardiomyocyte function,” senior author Dr. Dongfeng Gu of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences in Beijing, tells.