Evidence supporting the use of: EGCG
For the health condition: Diabetic Retinopathy

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the main catechin in green tea, has been studied for its potential benefits in diabetic retinopathy (DR) primarily in preclinical models. Animal studies and in vitro research suggest that EGCG exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenic properties that may protect retinal cells from hyperglycemia-induced damage. For example, EGCG has been shown to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate pathways involved in retinal inflammation and apoptosis in diabetic rats and retinal cell cultures. These mechanisms are relevant as oxidative stress and abnormal angiogenesis play key roles in the pathogenesis of DR.

However, clinical evidence in humans is lacking. No large-scale randomized controlled trials have assessed the efficacy or safety of EGCG in preventing or treating diabetic retinopathy in people. Most evidence is limited to laboratory and animal studies, which, while promising, do not directly translate to clinical recommendations. Therefore, while there is a scientific rationale and some experimental validation for EGCG’s potential benefits in DR, the current level of evidence is low, and its use in this context is not supported by robust clinical data. EGCG should not be relied upon as a primary or sole treatment for diabetic retinopathy until more human research is available.

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Products containing EGCG

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