The extract of green tea has been touted in recent years for its antioxidant benefits. It has been recommended as helpful for many different ailments and even as an aid for weight loss, but green tea extract only has medical approval in the United States for one use: as a treatment for genital warts.
Plant
Green tea is produced from dried leaves of the perennial shrub Camellia sinensis. The strength and taste varies depending on the growing region it comes from, the area of that region, how it is cultivated and processed. Green tea extract is derived from the leaves. Most of the green tea produced today comes from Sri Lanka and India, but it is now growing throughout the world.
History
The use of green tea dates back to the ancient civilizations of India and China. The tea and its extract were used for everything from religious rituals to medical treatments. The connection of green tea and staying awake--from the caffeine in the beverage--was even explored in early cultures. The Mayo Clinic website states that green tea was introduced to the Western world by the Turkish traders in the sixth century.
Prescription
In 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Polyphenon E as a prescription medication for genital warts caused by HPV, the human papilloma virus. Polyphenon E is one of the main ingredients in green tea extract. The FDA declared that the use of this external preparation was shown to reduce genital warts when tested on animals and humans. The only side effects seen were minor and consisted mostly of itching and burning of the skin.
Considerations
The use of green tea has been studied and approved in the United States for genital warts. There appears to be no scientific evidence that green tea extract is helpful for other warts. Check with your doctor before using green tea topically or consuming it for warts. Using preparations on warts without the guidance of a healthcare professional may exacerbate the condition.
Warning
According to the Mayo Clinic, you should avoid using green tea extract for warts if you have an allergy or sensitivity to tannin or caffeine. Rashes have been reported in those with these problems. If consuming green tea, be aware of its caffeine contact as caffeine is a stimulant and diuretic that can cause an increase in heart rate, blood pressure and production of acid in the stomach. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should especially use caution with green tea.
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