Synopsis

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

Tea polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) found in green tea, have attracted scientific interest for their potential effects on mood and depression. Several preclinical studies in animal models indicate that tea polyphenols may exert antidepressant-like effects, possibly by modulating neurotransmitter systems (such as serotonin and dopamine), reducing inflammation, and decreasing oxidative stress—mechanisms implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. Some human observational studies suggest a correlation between higher green tea consumption and lower rates of depressive symptoms, but these findings are not consistent and do not establish causation. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in humans are limited and generally small in scale, with mixed results; some show modest improvements in mood, while others find no significant effects. Meta-analyses and reviews typically conclude that while there is biological plausibility and promising preclinical data, the current clinical evidence is insufficient to recommend tea polyphenols as a primary or adjunctive treatment for depression. More rigorous, large-scale RCTs are needed to clarify efficacy, optimal dosing, and mechanisms. As such, the use of tea polyphenols for depression is supported by some scientific investigation but the overall quality and quantity of evidence is moderate to low.

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