Talk about a superhero tea.
According to a new study from researchers at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland, a compound found in green tea could be used to tackle cancer.
The compound, which is known as epigallocatechin gallate -- a type of flavonoid -- has been known to contain cancer-defying properties, but until now, has failed to treat cancer-ridden tumours, according to the study.
But researchers at the university, through laboratory tests, were able to use a method that allowed the treatment of the compound to be directly delivered to tumours. The result? At least two thirds of the tumours either shrank or disappeared within a month and showed no irregular side effects to the tissues, according to the report.
"When we used our method, the green tea extract reduced the size of many of the tumours every day, in some cases removing them altogether. By contrast, the extract had no effect at all when it was delivered by other means, as every one of these tumours continued to grow," said lead researcher Dr. Christine Dufès, a senior lecturer at the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, in the press release.
"This research could open doors to new treatments for what is still one of the biggest killer diseases in many countries."
For everyday consumption, some experts recommend drinking at least three cups of green tea a day. A 2009 review of 51 green tea studies found that three to five cups of the beverage could lower the risks of ovarian, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers, but not breast or other cancers, according to Health.com.
Other studies have shown that drinking one to four cups of black or green tea a day can lower the risk of Parkinson's disease, help with our body's ageing process and is packed with antioxidants that can help with weight loss, according to Health.com.
ALSO: 19 other foods that can help lower your risk of cancer:
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Cheer The Blues
In terms of antioxidant power, fresh blueberries are stars, with high concentrations of anthocyanins, which may curb cancer cell proliferation.
Put On The Kettle
White and green tea contain EGCG, a plant chemical and antioxidant that may protect cell health.
Add Some Zing
Ginger may reduce the risk of colon cancer by quelling inflammation in the digestive tract.
Have A Salad -- In A Glass
Kale contains isothiocyanates, which help purge the body of carcinogens, and apples appear to have anticancer effects on the colon.
Get Strolling
A brisk, daily 30-minute walk can improve sleep and energy and potentially reduce the risk of diabetes and cancer.
Enjoy Downward Dog
Yoga may relieve stress and strengthen the immune system.
Take A Family Health Snapshot
Sit down with your oldest relatives and ask about your family health history. This can be helpful in determining which diseases to be screened for and how often.
Decide How To Be Nudged
The <a href="http://nationalbreastcancer.org/edp/" target="_hplink">National Breast Cancer Foundation's early detection plan</a> is one of many that lets you choose how to receive your mammogram reminders; options include e-mail, text and calendar updates.
Acknowledge Emotions
Cancer can affect mental health as well as physical health. When you meet with your oncologist, be sure to bring up any mood issues.
Don't Wait To Exhale
Breathe out. Now in. A daily five-minute session of slow, measured breathing can help counter the negative effects that stress has on physical and emotional health.
Focus On Fiber
Oats are a good source of fiber, which, in addition to helping the body eliminate toxins, can ward off hunger by keeping blood sugar levels steady and making the body feel fuller longer.
Embrace Coffee
Regular consumption is associated with a lower risk of basal cell skin cancer.
Go Organic
Blueberries are one of the most heavily sprayed fruits, so it's best to choose pesticide-free whenever possible.
Tart It Up
Blackberries, cranberries and cherries are rich in the antioxidant compounds anthocyanins, which may slow the growth of certain cancers.
Tuck Into Green
Broccoli is a source of compounds called indoles, which have inhibited cancer growth in lab studies.
Have A Hot Plate
Red pepper flakes contain capsaicin, which can damage cancer cells by attacking their energy source without hurting healthy cells nearby.
Roll Out The Red
Tomatoes contain lycopene, which may reduce the risk of lung and stomach cancers.
Preheat The Oven
Our bodies get more cancer-fighting lycopene from cooked tomatoes than from raw ones.
Grab Some Good Eggs
In addition to boasting proteins and essential lipids, eggs contain antioxidant properties that may help prevent cancer.
Try Turmeric
The golden-hued Indian spice gets its color from a pigment called curcumin, which is also an antioxidant that fights inflammation.
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The Huffington Post Canada | Posted: 08/22/2012 2:55 pm Updated: 09/14/2012 11:13 am