Tea polyphenols, particularly those found in green tea such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), have been investigated for their potential hepatoprotective and antiviral effects, including in the context of hepatitis. Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that tea polyphenols possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties that may be beneficial in mitigating liver damage caused by hepatitis viruses. For example, EGCG has been shown in laboratory studies to inhibit the replication of hepatitis B and C viruses and reduce liver inflammation and fibrosis in animal models. Some mechanisms proposed include modulation of key signaling pathways involved in inflammation and viral replication, such as NF-κB and MAPK pathways.

However, clinical evidence in humans remains limited. A few small clinical trials and observational studies suggest potential benefits, such as reduced liver enzyme levels or improved markers of oxidative stress in hepatitis patients consuming green tea or its extracts, but results are inconsistent and not robust enough to recommend routine use. Moreover, concerns about hepatotoxicity with high doses of tea polyphenol supplements have been reported in rare cases.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary preclinical evidence supporting the use of tea polyphenols for hepatitis, high-quality clinical trials are lacking. Therefore, the evidence rating is modest, and tea polyphenols should not replace standard medical treatments for hepatitis.