by WTN Staff

According to a report released this week, green tea extract shows promise for the treatment of uterine fibroids.

The report summarized research done at the Center for Women's Health Research in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Meharry Medical College in Nashville. The January 2009 issue of the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology published the findings.

The team of researchers tested the effect of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on fibroid tumors (leiomyoma) in rat cells and in nude mice, in vitro and in vivo, respectively. Diseased cells were introduced into the cells and mice, which were then fed doses of EGCG in the form of green tea extract in their drinking water.

An inhibitory effect in the growth of the diseased cells was noted after 24 hours of treatment. According to an abstractof the report, the EGCG treatment "dramatically reduced the volume and weight of tumors at 4 and 8 weeks after the treatment." The team concluded that "EGCG effectively inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in rat ELT3 uterine leiomyoma cells in vitro and in vivo."

The researchers, who have focused on finding treatments for uterine fibroids, were encouraged by the results. A statement

released this week noted that 40 percent of reproductive age women suffer from the disease, which can be extremely painful, even debilitating.

"If we can prove this compound is effective, millions of women can start self treatment and self management," Dr. Ayman Al-Hendy, who led the study, said in the statement.