Multiple myeloma is a form of cancer that begins in white blood cells called plasma cells. Eventually it affects the bone marrow and solid bone. MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. Library of Medicine, states that cause of multiple myeloma is unclear but adds that it is more common in older people and African-Americans. Multiple myeloma is difficult to cure, but chemotherapy, radiation and stem cell transplantation may help to reduce symptoms. The herb green tea might also play a role in the treatment of multiple myeloma, although evidence to prove this is limited. Get medical advice before adding green tea to your treatment plan.
About Green Tea
Green tea, made by steaming the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, is enjoyed as a refreshing beverage in many parts of the world. It is also sometimes used to treat a host of medical conditions including cognitive disorders and cardiovascular disease, and as weight loss aid. Green tea contains a host of active compounds, including polyphenols. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, green tea compounds might play a role in the prevention or treatment of cancer.
Scientific Evidence
Clinical studies evaluating the effects of green tea on multiple myeloma are lacking. However, the results of a laboratory study published in the December 2009 issue of "Acta Biochimica et Biophysica Sinica" show that a green tea polyphenol compound, known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate may heighten the effect of the cancer drug bortezomib and might also induce multiple myeloma cell death. The authors conclude that epigallocatechin-3-gallate, either alone or in combination with bortezomib, might have a role in multiple myeloma treatment.
Administration
Green tea is usually consumed as a warm beverage, although green tea extract is also available in capsules or tablets from health food stores. Since green tea is not a proven treatment for multiple myeloma, guidance regarding a suitable dosage is lacking. However, your doctor or oncologist might be able to advise on an appropriate dose.
Safety Considerations
Although green tea is included on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's "generally recognized as safe list," it might cause side effects including irritability, insomnia, gastrointestinal upset and nervousness. It also interacts with a host of medicines including anticoagulants, codeine and iron supplements. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that polyphenol compounds in green tea might negate the effects of the cancer drug, bortezomib, so consult your oncologist before using green tea if you are taking this drug.
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