Effects of Japanese Green Tea on the Brain: Prevention of Aging

Catechins, the astringent components of Japanese green tea, have been found to suppress age-related decline in learning and memory. Theanine, a unique umami component of tea, has stress-reducing effects. As stress promotes aging, the anti-aging effects of theanine are also anticipated. Notably, catechins and caffeine act antagonistically to theanine, and the effects of these interactions on the brain are also discussed.