Cervical cancer affects the cells that line the neck of the uterus, known as the cervix. U.K. health care provider Bupa notes that 99 percent of cervical cancer cases are associated with the human papilloma virus, or HPV; however, only a small number of women that contract HPV go on to develop cervical cancer. There are a number of treatment options for cervical cancer, radiotherapy, surgery and chemotherapy. Green tea may have anti-cancer effects and aid conventional cancer treatment, but evidence to prove it works is limited. Get advice from your doctor before using green tea.
Scientific Evidence
Conclusive evidence to show that green tea is an effective treatment for cervical cancer is lacking. However, results from several studies show promise. Findings from a study published in the May 2010 issue of the "International Journal of Gynecological Cancer" show that polyphenols found in green tea inhibit cervical cancer cell growth. Research published in 2008 in the Chinese medical journal "Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi" also shows that green tea extract inhibits the expression of proteins needed for cervical cancer cell growth.
Administration
The leaves of the Camellia sinensis are used to make a variety of green tea preparations including capsules and tablets, although this herb is most commonly taken as a beverage. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 250 to 500 mg of a standardized extract of green tea once daily to boost immunity. However, this dosage should only be used as a guideline. Talk to a doctor about the most appropriate dose for you.
Safety
Green tea is likely safe for most people, although drinking more than 5 cups daily may cause side effects including nausea, irritability, nervousness and headaches. Drinking very high doses of green tea can actually be fatal, Medline Plus. This herb may hinder the absorption of dietary iron and is not suitable for people with bleeding disorders, glaucoma, heart conditions and liver disease. You should also avoid this herb if you have diabetes or suffer from anxiety. Green tea also interacts with a number of drugs including antibiotics, anticoagulants and lithium. Talk to your doctor before taking this herb to ensure it is safe for you.
Things to Consider
There is no conclusive evidence to show that green tea can successfully treat cervical cancer, therefore you should not rely on it to treat your condition or use it in place cancer treatments prescribed by your doctor. Cervical cancer can be prevented by undergoing regular cervical screening to identify precancerous cells, using barrier contraceptives and practicing safe sex. Vaccinations against HPV are also available, and according to UMMC, could prevent up to 70 percent of cervical cancer cases.
References
- Bupa: Cervical Cancer
- PubMed: Green Tea Compound in Chemoprevention of Cervical Cancer
- PubMed: Effects of Green Tea Extract on Expression of Human Papillomavirus Type 16 Oncoproteins-Induced Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1alpha and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Human Cervical Carcinoma Cells
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cervical Dysplasia
- MedlinePlus: Green Tea
