Catechins are a type of natural phenol and antioxidant, which belong to the larger group of compounds known as flavonoids. They are found in a variety of plants, but are most commonly associated with green tea. The most well-known catechins include epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG), and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).