January/February 2002
HEALTH BYTES

Green tea may treat skin cancer

Green tea has potential as a preventive therapy for skin cancer and inflammation of the skin, according to a review in the Archives of Dermatology. Researchers reviewed studies of the anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic and antioxidant effects of green tea or its active constituents (flavanols, commonly known as catechins) on the skin. Overall, the studies demonstrated that both oral and topical green tea reduced inflammatory responses that are early markers of skin tumor promotion, and protected against the development and promotion of skin tumors. The researchers conclude that green tea is a promising anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic agent that "may have a profound impact on various skin disorders in the years to come."