Green Tea Cuts Off HIV!

The secret of the British vigor may stay in the tea: green tea has been already linked to induce positive effects on a large array of diseases, including heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's.

But now researchers say that the consume of green tea could help in the fight against HIV.

A joint British-American research have discovered that a compound named epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) inhibits HIV from attaching the immune system cells by arriving there first. When the EGCG molecule has attached to the immune system cells there is no space for HIV to get a grip on the white cells like it usually does.

But the researchers warn their investigation is in the preliminary stage. "Our research shows that drinking green tea could reduce the risk of becoming infected by HIV, and could also slow down the spread of HIV. It is not a cure, and nor is it a safe way to avoid infection, however, we suggest that it should be used in combination with conventional medicines to improve quality of life for those infected. Future research is also currently under way in order to determine how much effect can be expected from different amounts of tea", said researcher Professor Mike Williamson, of the University of Sheffield.

"Tests on animals would be needed before any conclusions could be safely drawn on the potential protective effect of drinking green tea", said Keith Alcorn, senior editor of the Aidsmap web service. "This study only looks at the ability of a chemical in green tea to block HIV binding to human CD4 immune cells in the test tube. Many substances shown to prevent HIV infection in the test tube turn out to have little or no effect in real life, so I think there's a long way to go before anyone should rely on green tea to protect against HIV infection."

"Condoms keep HIV at bay. Anything that boosts your immune system is beneficial for people with HIV, but green tea can't be a substitute for proper medication and prevention techniques", said Lisa Power, head of policy at the HIV charity, Terrence Higgins Trust.