Tea identified that may reduce inflammation in the lymphatic system

Chinese fermented Liubao tea may help restore the function of the lymphatic system and reduce inflammation, according to Chinese researchers in a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

Lymphedema is a chronic condition in which the lymphatic system fails to properly drain fluid from tissues. As a result, lymph accumulates in the body, leading to swelling, pain, inflammation, and an increased risk of infections, most commonly in the limbs.

In the study, scientists examined the effect of Liubao tea extract on lymphatic endothelial cells, which line lymphatic vessels. They found that lymphedema is associated with increased activity of the PRKCB protein, which is linked to inflammation and disrupted cellular metabolism. The tea extract reduced the activity of this protein and improved the cells’ ability to recover after inflammatory damage.

The strongest effects were observed in specific compounds in the tea, including tiliroside and quercetin. However, the findings are currently limited to cell-based experiments, meaning it is too early to claim any therapeutic effect in humans. Still, the authors suggest Liubao tea could be a promising functional product for supporting lymphatic system health.

Previously, scientists also reported that another Chinese tea—Kuding tea—may help protect against gout and kidney disease.

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