Camellia sinensis is a species of evergreen shrub or small tree native to East Asia, renowned for its leaves which are used to produce tea. The plant is the source of various types of tea, including green, black, white, and oolong, depending on the processing method. Camellia sinensis is valued not only for its economic importance but also for its health benefits and aesthetic qualities.

Botanical Classification:

Kingdom: Plantae
Order: Ericales
Family: Theaceae
Genus: Camellia
Species: Camellia sinensis

Plant Characteristics:

Growth Form: Camellia sinensis typically grows as an evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 1 to 6 meters. In cultivation, it is often pruned to maintain a bushy form for easier harvesting.
Leaves: The leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate to lanceolate in shape, with serrated edges. They are usually 4 to 10 cm long and contain essential oils contributing to their aroma.
Flowers: The plant produces small, white or pink flowers with a yellow center. Each flower has 5 to 7 petals and is often solitary or in small clusters. The flowering period varies depending on the cultivar and growing conditions.
Fruit: The fruit is a small, woody capsule containing several seeds. It is not typically used in tea production but is important for plant propagation.

Chemical Composition and Structure:

Polyphenols: The leaves are rich in polyphenols, such as catechins (including epigallocatechin gallate, EGCG), which have antioxidant properties and contribute to the health benefits of tea.
Caffeine: Camellia sinensis contains caffeine, which provides a stimulating effect and contributes to the energizing properties of tea.
Amino Acids: The leaves contain amino acids like L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and can counteract the stimulating effects of caffeine.
Vitamins and Minerals: The plant is a source of vitamins such as vitamin C and B vitamins, as well as minerals like manganese, potassium, and magnesium.

How to Cultivate It:

Soil: Camellia sinensis prefers acidic, well-drained soils with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. It grows best in loamy or sandy soils rich in organic matter.
Climate: The plant thrives in subtropical to temperate climates with moderate temperatures and high humidity. It requires protection from frost and extreme heat.
Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. The plant prefers consistent moisture but should not be waterlogged. Good drainage is necessary to prevent root rot.
Propagation: Camellia sinensis can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a nursery with appropriate conditions for germination, while cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining medium.
Maintenance: Regular pruning is required to maintain the plant’s shape and promote new growth. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer supports healthy growth and optimal leaf production. Pest and disease management is important to ensure plant health.

Uses and Benefits:

Culinary: The leaves of Camellia sinensis are processed into various types of tea, including green tea, black tea, white tea, and oolong tea. Each type of tea is processed differently, affecting flavor, color, and health benefits.
Health Benefits: Tea made from Camellia sinensis is known for its antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation. It is also associated with benefits such as improved cardiovascular health, enhanced mental alertness, and potential cancer prevention.
Cosmetic: Extracts from Camellia sinensis are used in skincare products for their antioxidant and anti-aging properties. They help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and can improve skin appearance and texture.

Applications:

Food Industry: Camellia sinensis is primarily used in the production of tea, which is consumed worldwide. It is also used in culinary applications for flavoring and as a natural ingredient in various food products.
Cosmetics and Personal Care: Extracts of Camellia sinensis are incorporated into skincare and cosmetic products for their antioxidant and anti-aging benefits. They are used in lotions, serums, and face masks.
Traditional Medicine: In traditional medicine, tea from Camellia sinensis is used for its therapeutic properties, including aiding digestion, reducing stress, and improving overall health.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

Environmental Impact: Cultivation of Camellia sinensis can have environmental impacts, such as deforestation and pesticide use. Sustainable farming practices are important to minimize negative effects and promote ecological balance.
Safety: Tea from Camellia sinensis is generally safe for consumption. However, excessive intake of caffeine can lead to side effects such as insomnia or jitteriness. It is also important to use tea extracts and oils in cosmetics as directed to avoid potential irritation.

INCI Functions:


Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.

Antioxidant agent. Ingredient that counteracts oxidative stress and prevents cell damage. Free radicals, pathological inflammatory processes, reactive nitrogen species and reactive oxygen species are responsible for the ageing process and many diseases caused by oxidation.

Bleaching agent. This ingredient exerts a depigmentation and/or lightening action on the set of pigments produced by melanocytes and known as melanin, the substance responsible for skin colouration.
Synonyms:

CAS: 84650-60-2 EC number 283-519-7