What makes Camellia sinensis Shizu-Inzatsu different from other green tea cultivars?

Shizu-Inzatsu contains methyl anthranilate, a unique aromatic compound not commonly found in other tea cultivars. This gives it a distinctive fragrance profile compared to standard green tea varieties.

Has Camellia sinensis Shizu-Inzatsu been studied for health benefits?

No clinical studies have specifically examined Shizu-Inzatsu for health benefits. While it may contain standard green tea compounds like catechins, no research has validated therapeutic effects for this particular cultivar.

What is methyl anthranilate and what does it do?

Methyl anthranilate is an aromatic ester compound that provides grape-like fragrance. In Shizu-Inzatsu tea, it contributes to the unique sensory profile, but no health effects have been documented for this compound in tea form.

Can I take Camellia sinensis Shizu-Inzatsu supplements?

Commercial supplements specifically containing Shizu-Inzatsu cultivar are rare and lack safety data. Most green tea supplements use common cultivars with established research backing.

Is Shizu-Inzatsu tea safe to drink daily?

While likely safe in normal tea consumption amounts, specific safety data for Shizu-Inzatsu doesn't exist. Standard green tea precautions regarding caffeine content and drug interactions should be followed.

How is Camellia sinensis Shizu-Inzatsu processed compared to other tea processing methods?

Shizu-Inzatsu is processed as a green tea, which means the leaves are heated shortly after harvesting to prevent oxidation, preserving their green color and fresh characteristics. This contrasts with black tea or oolong processing, where leaves undergo full or partial oxidation. The specific processing method helps retain the cultivar's distinctive methyl anthranilate aroma and general catechin content typical of green teas.

Where is Camellia sinensis Shizu-Inzatsu cultivated and grown?

Shizu-Inzatsu is a Japanese tea cultivar traditionally grown in Japan's tea-producing regions. This cultivar was developed specifically for Japanese tea production and remains primarily cultivated in Japan, where it is processed into premium green teas. The growing region and terroir influence the final flavor profile and aromatic compounds, including the characteristic methyl anthranilate.

What is the typical caffeine content in Camellia sinensis Shizu-Inzatsu compared to other green teas?

Like all Camellia sinensis varieties, Shizu-Inzatsu contains caffeine as a natural component, though the exact amount depends on brewing time and water temperature. As a green tea, it typically contains less caffeine than black teas but similar levels to other green tea cultivars, usually ranging from 25–50 mg per cup. The specific caffeine concentration in this cultivar has not been independently documented in clinical literature.

Camellia sinensis 'Shizu-Inzatsu'

Camellia sinensis 'Shizu-Inzatsu' is a Japanese green tea cultivar containing methyl anthranilate as its primary bioactive compound. This cultivar has not been specifically studied for health benefits, though it may share general green tea properties through standard catechin content.

Category: Tea Cultivars Evidence: 2/10 Tier: Traditional

Camellia sinensis 'Shizu-Inzatsu' — Hermetica Encyclopedia

Origin & History

Camellia sinensis 'Shizu-Inzatsu' is a rare Japanese tea cultivar derived from a natural cross between var. assamica and var. sinensis, originating from clonal strains introduced from Assam. The leaves are processed primarily into green teas such as sencha and fukamushi sencha using specialized methods like prolonged steaming and hot air blowing to enhance its distinctive floral perfume.

Historical & Cultural Context

'Shizu-Inzatsu 131' was developed in Japan as a green tea cultivar valued for its hasty growth and special perfume, despite lower cold and disease resistance. Mid-20th century researchers like Arima experimented with innovative processing methods to enhance its floral scent, though projects were interrupted due to processing challenges.

Health Benefits

• No specific health benefits have been clinically studied for this cultivar - evidence quality: None
• General green tea benefits may apply but are not documented for this specific cultivar - evidence quality: None
• Contains methyl anthranilate, a unique aromatic compound, but no health effects studied - evidence quality: None
• Processed as green tea, which generally contains catechins, but concentrations not specified - evidence quality: None
• No human trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses exist for this specific cultivar - evidence quality: None

How It Works

Methyl anthranilate in Shizu-Inzatsu may interact with olfactory receptors and potentially influence neurotransmitter pathways, though specific mechanisms remain unstudied. The cultivar likely contains standard green tea catechins like EGCG that inhibit catechol-O-methyltransferase and provide antioxidant activity through free radical scavenging. Without dedicated research, the unique aromatic profile's biological effects are theoretical.

Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses specific to Camellia sinensis 'Shizu-Inzatsu' were identified in the available research. While general evidence exists for Camellia sinensis compounds like catechins, no cultivar-specific studies or PubMed PMIDs are available for this particular variant.

Clinical Summary

No clinical studies have specifically investigated Camellia sinensis 'Shizu-Inzatsu' for health outcomes or therapeutic applications. The cultivar's methyl anthranilate content has been identified through chemical analysis, but no human trials have examined its bioavailability or physiological effects. While general green tea research suggests potential benefits from catechin content, these findings cannot be directly applied to this specific cultivar without dedicated studies. The evidence base for Shizu-Inzatsu remains entirely theoretical.

Nutritional Profile

Shizu-Inzatsu is a Japanese green tea cultivar with limited cultivar-specific nutritional data; general green tea composition applies with some noted distinctions. Catechins (polyphenols): total catechin content estimated 100–200 mg/g dry leaf typical of Japanese green teas, including EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate, likely 50–100 mg/g dry leaf), EGC, ECG, and EC, though cultivar-specific catechin profiling is not publicly documented. Caffeine: approximately 20–40 mg per 200 ml brewed cup, consistent with Japanese green tea norms. Theanine (L-theanine): present as a characteristic amino acid of Camellia sinensis, estimated 10–30 mg per gram dry leaf, though Shizu-Inzatsu-specific theanine data is absent. Methyl anthranilate: a distinctive aromatic ester compound identified in this cultivar responsible for its characteristic grape-like or muscat aroma; concentration data is not publicly quantified but its presence is documented as a cultivar-defining volatile compound. Chlorophyll and carotenoids: present as processed green tea (unoxidized), contributing antioxidant capacity. Minerals: fluoride, manganese, potassium, and magnesium present at levels typical of green tea (e.g., manganese ~0.3–0.5 mg per cup). Fiber: minimal in brewed liquid form; whole leaf consumption would provide small amounts of insoluble fiber. Bioavailability: catechin bioavailability is moderate and reduced by milk co-consumption; theanine is well-absorbed orally. No cultivar-specific nutritional analysis has been published in peer-reviewed literature as of available data.

Preparation & Dosage

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available for 'Shizu-Inzatsu'. It is consumed as brewed green tea, with brewing recommendations at 80°C for optimal floral notes, supporting 4-5 infusions. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Synergy & Pairings

Other green tea cultivars, L-theanine, general Camellia sinensis extracts, Japanese sencha varieties, fukamushi sencha

Safety & Interactions

Safety data specific to Camellia sinensis 'Shizu-Inzatsu' is not available due to lack of clinical research. General green tea safety considerations likely apply, including potential caffeine-related effects and interactions with blood thinning medications. Methyl anthranilate is generally recognized as safe as a food additive, but concentrated supplemental forms have not been evaluated. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution due to caffeine content and unknown effects of the unique aromatic compounds.