Phytochemistry and anticancer therapeutics of Camellia sinensis (Green tea)

Introduction

Tea is one of the most consumed beverages after water. It is obtained from the leaves of Camellia sinensis. Based on processing, it is classified as green, black, white, yellow, etc. Green tea, a non-fermented tea consists of rich content of polyphenols. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate is one of its major bioactive recognized for its immense therapeutics, especially as antioxidants. The antioxidant properties are supposed to be associated with the anticancer properties.

Method

The present study emphasizes on the phytochemistry, anticancer efficacy and anticancer mechanism of action of green tea. The literature survey was conducted from 2017 to 2024 using different scientific databases.

Results

Epicatechin-3-gallate was the major phytocompound of green tea, responsible for its diverse pharmacological effects. The plant is highly explored against breast cancer. The anticancer mechanism is mainly attributed to its apoptosis-inducing potential. Recent new technologies in tea processing, botanical description, ethnomedicinal and clinical studies were also discussed.

Conclusion

The plant possesses promising anticancer activity. Hence, further studies on the anticancer drug development and toxicity status of green tea bioactives may provide new insights into their therapeutic potential and associated safety issues.