Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

White tea (Camellia sinensis) has traditionally been consumed in various cultures for its purported health benefits, including the support of immune function and relief from colds. This use is largely based on the custom of drinking warm herbal teas during illness, with the belief that they can soothe symptoms, hydrate, and provide comfort. White tea, being less processed than green or black tea, is particularly valued for its delicate flavor and higher polyphenol content.

From a scientific perspective, white tea contains polyphenols such as catechins that have demonstrated some antiviral and antioxidant properties in laboratory settings. In vitro studies have suggested that these compounds can inhibit the replication of certain viruses, and white tea extracts have shown mild antiviral activity against some pathogens. However, the evidence is limited to preliminary laboratory research; there are no robust clinical trials or human studies directly supporting the use of white tea for the prevention or treatment of colds. Its traditional use as a remedy should not be conflated with proven efficacy against viral infections like the common cold.

Therefore, while white tea is traditionally used to support the body during colds, and some of its components have shown antiviral activity in early studies, the overall scientific evidence supporting its use for this purpose remains weak. More research, especially in human populations, is needed to validate these traditional claims.

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