Ellen Campbell -Grizzle
GREEN TEA is attracting the attention of researchers from all over the world. The extract is derived from the dried leaves of Camellia Sinesis. A major constituent of the tea is an antioxidant epigallocatechin -3-gallate (EGCG). Researchers are studying its potential in the treatment of cancer, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis and HIV/AIDS.
PROTECTION AGAINST ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
Scientists at the University of Florida, led by Dr. Jun Tan, suggest that EGCG may be effective in decreasing the formation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain leading to nerve damage and memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease. In their experiment they gave daily injections of EGCG to mice and observed reduction of the plaques. Unfortunately, there are certain falconoid in green tea that block the positive effects of EGCG.
EXCITING DISCOVERY
Researchers in the U.K. and Spain claim that EGCG inhibits the growth of cancer cells. The effect was seen even at low concentrations, equivalent to drinking two or three cups every day. The latest study shows that the antioxidant binds to the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, in the same way as established anticancer drugs. Lead researcher, Professor Roger Thorneley of the UK describes the discovery as "exciting". He believes that it is possible to develop new anticancer drugs based on the structure of the EGCG molecule.
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND MORE
EGCG has potential in the prevention and treatment of neuro-degenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis. It inhibits T-cells, the immune cells that attack one's own tissue. Researchers at the University of Tokyo, led by Dr. Kuzushige Kawai, found that the compound protected vital parts of the body's immune system. Usually HIV is able to devastate the CD4 molecules and T cells. The researchers report that EGCG stopped the virus from binding to these cells. They warn that drinking green tea would not offer the protection as the concentrations used in the laboratory tests are many times over the blood concentrations that can be achieved from drinking tea. Further research is needed before the laboratory findings will lead to new drugs for patients with HIV.
Green tea shows promise to treat an impressive list of health conditions:
Preventing dental caries
Reducing bad breath
As an allergy fighter
Reducing inflammation in arthritis
Calorie burner
Cough and colds
Allergies
Cancer researchers anticipate that EGCG will be used as a starting point to design and develop new drugs that kill tumours but inflict less damage on healthy cells. Green tea has been used for thousands of years. It is popular because of its pleasant taste and health benefits. Today, scientists are unlocking its secrets that may lead to the development of medicines to alleviate illnesses that are devastating people's lives.
EXERCISE CAUTION
Studies show that a high level of green tea consumption around the time of conception and during pregnancy is likely to increase the incidence of neural tube defects. Green tea causes a significant drop in folic acid levels and these defects, such as spina bifida, are associated with a lack of folic acid. Remember, Green tea can interact with medication that you are currently taking. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about potential drug interactions.
Ellen Campbell Grizzle, president, Caribbean Association of Pharmacists; director, Information and Research, National Council on Drug Abuse; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
