Less effective because for EGCG to be effective it needs to be suspended into a carrier medium (usually some lotion) that ‘carries’ it through the top layer of the skin where it can have a positive effect. And it needs preservatives to prevent microbial contamination. Without those two, ...
Try using eucalyptus oil and lotion on the soles of your feet to help clear your throat and lungs, and ward off the cold symptoms. Oh, and wear socks. As to the tea, Trader Joe’s has a peppermint green tea out now and my 12 yo son and my 16 yo daughter take turns hiding it ...