Green Tea and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Several studies suggest that the antioxidants found in green tea may reduce the severity of symptoms for people with rheumatoid arthritis(RA).  The component EGCG (epigallocatechin 3 gallate)  found in green tea was shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory compounds  in the immune system that contribute to joint damage in patients with RA.  The studies showed that green tea  significantly blocked IL-6 and Cox 2 and prostaglandin E2 a components that causes inflammation and joint damage.  Green tea is made from unfermented leaves. Because green tea is the least processed tea it provides the most antioxidants. It can be found in most grocery stores.