Scientists from Johns Hopkins University have found that epigallocatechin gallate, a component of green tea, may be useful in the treatment of various gynecological diseases and may also increase the chances of successful IVF. Review study published in the journal nutrients.
Of the many antioxidant compounds found in green tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is one of the main active compounds. It has been widely studied as a chemotherapeutic agent against various types of cancer.
Researchers reviewed existing studies on the mechanism of action of EGCG and its effectiveness in relieving symptoms of benign reproductive disorders in women.
Scientists have found that dysmenorrhea (severe pain during menstruation) is associated with high levels of prostaglandins produced by the uterus. Studies have shown that EGCG can reduce the synthesis of these substances and provide an alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Animal and human studies have shown that EGCG therapy successfully reduces the size of fibroids (benign uterine tumors) and improves overall quality of life by relieving symptoms.
Another disease for which EGCG can be beneficial is endometriosis, ie the growth of uterine cells outside of it. Experiments in mice have shown that EGCG treatment reduces the size of existing endometrial growths and inhibits the formation of new ones.
In addition, EGCG can improve egg quality by reducing the amount of reactive oxygen species that damage them. This could potentially lead to improved outcomes in in vitro fertilization.
Overall, the review found that EGCG may have clinical benefits for benign gynecological conditions: polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, dysmenorrhea, and fibroids. However, the authors believe that clinical studies are needed to prove the effectiveness of EGCG, as most of the evidence comes from experiments in mice and cells.