Catechin (C)
Catechin (C) — stable parent compound of tea's catechin family. Antimicrobial with cardiovascular benefits.
Quick Facts
- Chemical Formula
- C₁₅H₁₄O₆
- Typical Amount per Cup
- 4.00 mg
Description
The simplest flavan-3-ol and the parent compound of tea's catechin family. While less abundant than EGCG or EGC in green tea, catechin (C) is one of the most stable catechins and persists through oxidation processing. It contributes a mild, pleasant astringency and has demonstrated antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Together with its isomer epicatechin (EC), it forms the building blocks that polymerize into the more complex theaflavins and thearubigins during black tea production.
Health Benefits
Antioxidant protection, antimicrobial activity especially against oral pathogens, supports cardiovascular health, precursor to theaflavins in oxidized teas.