Green Tea and Arthritis

Research Summary (see below for details):  EGCg (the active component of Green Tea) may aid in reducing pain, inflammation, and progression of arthritis; however, scientists need to confirm results in humans. Researchers believe that the its antioxidants may prevent and reduce the severity of arthritis. The results are promising enough that Arthritis Today declared that four cups of green tea per day may prevent the onset or progression of arthritis

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EGCg may help prevent osteoarthritis by blocking the enzyme that destroys cartilage.

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People living in India, China and Japan -- where green tea consumption is high -- have lower rates of arthritis.

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EGCg appears to block the Cox-2 pathway, which is the major cause of inflammation and pain of arthritis while reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems.  Blocking the Cox-2 pathway is how many anti-arthritis drugs (Celebrex,Vioxx) work; however, EGCg does not work the same way as the anti-arthritis drugs.  Prescription Cox-2 inhibitors block existing Cox-2, while EGCg prevents the release of Cox-2.This is why prescription Cox-2 inhibitors (Celebrex,Vioxx) are associated with higher risk of cardiovascular problems while EGCg is associated with lower risk. 

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Last Updated 10/13/2008