The free radical scavenging activity of Thea sinensis leaf extract was
evaluated with a chemical test involving diphenylpicrylhydrazyl radic
al (DPPH), The hot aqueous green tea extract demonstrated antiradical
activity comparable with rutin and vitamin E used as a standard. Liqui
d-liquid fractionation monitored by scavenging radical bioassay follow
ed by preparative high pressure liquid chromatography led to catechin
derivatives, The antiradical activity of the main component of tea lea
ves was identified as epigallocatechin gallate the major component dem
onstrating activity.