Green Tea Compound May Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
Soon, green tea is going to be a panacea for all diseases, I think. Because of its epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) content, green tea has been demonstrated to have potentials in preventing or treating autoimmune diseases, HIV infection, cancer, and others.
A new study also suggests that EGCG may also provide therapeutic benefits to people with rheumatoid arthritis.
The researchers looked at whether the green tea compound has the capability to block the activity of two potent molecules, IL-6 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which also are actively involved in causing bone erosion in the joints of people with rheumatoid arthritis.
[In untreated cells], a sequence of molecular events occurred that resulted in production of the bone-destructive molecules. But the scientists found that pre-incubation with EGCG was capable of inhibiting the production of these molecules. EGCG also inhibited the production of prostaglandin E2, a hormone-like substance that causes inflammation in the joints.
Of course, this study, having used cell models, is still far from conclusive. Similar therapeutic or preventive effects will still have to be demonstrated in animal, and subsequently, human trials.
One of my patients told me about this last week. She is a health researcher but also lives with RA. I think RA patients will take all the help they can get, it really is devastating!
Although I have not tried it, it is my understanding that the active ingredient EGCG is also great for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and puffy eyes when applied topically (i.e. applying a compress soaked in chilled green tea). With its antioxidants, green tea is definitely a great product to have regularly.