Green Tea Tonic

As the ancient Chinese once observed: Better to be deprived of food for three days than tea for one. Modern science is now confirming the many health benefits behind the ancients' high esteem for green tea. While drinking green tea has been linked to higher immune function, lower cholesterol, and lower rates of cancers of all kind - the promising results of its topical application are also well documented.

Ingredients:

• 1 green tea bag (though any brand will do, we like Bigelow)
• Hot water to immerse tea bag

Directions:

Heat water, steep green tea bag in a cup with just enough water to cover bag so as not to dilute. Let tea cool entirely, testing it with the tip of a finger after five minutes. Then use a cotton ball or cosmetic cotton pad to soak up some of the cooled tea, and swab onto washed face. For convenience you can even use the tea bag itself, making sure to squeeze it slightly before applying to prevent dripping or staining.

The green brew brims with several beneficial polyphenols, which function as potent antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals before they can ravage your skin. Excellent evidence exists that green tea polyphenols can function topically as antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and anti-carcinogens. When green tea antioxidants are applied to skin prior to UV exposure, they may also help to prevent sun damage. This makes them highly valued additives in skin care products, which boldly tout the purported benefits of their green tea ingredients.

In truth, such claims seem to be steeped in advertising hype, as the antioxidants in green tea rapidly degrade with time, casting doubt on whether their inclusion in such products will have the claimed effects. But by making up this simple green tea tonic fresh in your own kitchen, you can give your skin a good dose of active antioxidants -- mopping up free radicals and enhancing your skin's protective barrier against future damage.