The findings suggest that the substances, known as catechins, are absorbed by the lens, retina and other parts of the eye. Catechins are antioxidants thought to protect the body against damage from oxygen.

According to Chi Pui Pang and colleagues from the department of ophthalmology and visual sciences at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, it wasn't known if catechins make their way from the mouth to the gastrointestinal system to the eyes.

The study authors gave green tea to rats and then tested their eyes to see if catechins affected them. They did, reducing oxidative stress in the eye for up to 20 hours.

"Our results indicate that green tea consumption could benefit the eye against oxidative stress," the authors said.

A 2007 study conducted by Chosun University College of Medicine in Korea had also discovered that the green tea antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) can protect human retinas against UV damage.

Tea tip
To freshen strained or tired eyes, soak cotton pads in green tea solution, squeeze out excess, and lay gently on eyelids. Let pads rest on lids for about 10 minutes. Repeat if necessary. This reduces puffiness and red eyes.

Pic: Aradia Di