Theophylline
Theophylline is an alkaloid, a chemical compound with one or more phenolic rings, that contains an amino group (with nitrogen in it) and is basic or alkaline. Theophylline is found in largest quantities in green and black tea, but also in cocoa and yerba mate. It is also made industrially to be used in some medicines.
Theophylline has a chemical structure similar to caffeine. It doesn't stimulate the central nervous system as much as caffeine, however it is addictive, with withdrawal symptoms being headaches, fatigue and drowsiness. There isn't enough of it present in tea to cause the same addictive effects as drinking a few cups of coffee, or to have the effects that medicines with theophylline produce. A cup of tea has about 1 mg of theophylline, while medications typically contains 100-400 mg.
This phytochemical has many physiological effects. These include relaxing the smooth bronchial muscles, increasing the efficiency of the heart muscle, increasing the heart rate, blood pressure and renal (kidney) blood flow, and anti-inflammatory effects. Theophylline was first extracted from tea leaves, and named, by a German named Kossel, in 1888. It was synthesized for clinical use in the early 1900's and was first used as a diuretic. In the 1920's it was used both as a diuretic and a cardiac medication. Theophylline began to be used for asthma therapy in the 1930's, and provides relief today for many asthma sufferers without the side effects of the traditional steriod medications.
Theophylline does have side effects, however. These include nausea and vomiting and cardiac dysrhythmias. It can also be toxic if you take too much. However, it would be difficult to get that amount of the phytochemical just from tea or other foods, as it is present in such small amounts.
The information on this page is not meant to be used in treatment of medical conditions. Please seek the advice of a physician about any medical condition or symptom. Those with medical conditions should consult a medical professional about the appropriateness of taking dietary supplements or diet therapy, and how these methods will interact with their medications.