Is tea polyphenol an antidote?
Aug 31, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Tea polyphenols are a general term for phenolic compounds found in tea. Under normal circumstances, tea polyphenols may interfere with certain medications; however, for specific diseases, they do not counteract the medication and may even promote recovery. Patients are advised to consult their doctor before taking medication to determine whether drinking tea is permissible. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention should be sought, and following the doctor's guidance for proper medication use can help support recovery.
Tea polyphenols are a general term for phenolic compounds found in tea. Under normal circumstances, tea polyphenols may counteract the effects of certain medications; however, for specific conditions, they do not interfere with medication and may even promote recovery. The details are as follows:
1. Counteracting Medication
Under normal circumstances, tea polyphenols may easily react with alkaloids present in herbal medicines such as Ephedra, Phellodendron, Stemona, Corydalis, and Cyathula, forming precipitates that can impair drug efficacy and reduce effectiveness. Additionally, tea is a slightly alkaline solution; if patients take acidic medications such as aspirin, tea may neutralize their medicinal properties. Moreover, when patients take medications containing heavy metal ions, drinking tea may lead to reactions between tannic acid in tea and these components, thereby reducing drug effectiveness.
2. Not Counteracting Medication
In traditional Chinese medicine, tea has long been regarded as a remedy for various ailments, and there are thousands of ancient prescriptions incorporating tea. The catechins and tea polyphenols in tea possess strong adsorption capabilities, effectively binding harmful substances in the gastrointestinal lining and bloodstream—including heavy metals, pathogenic bacteria, ammonia, and free radicals—making them excellent natural detoxifying agents. Tea also contains dozens of beneficial components such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and polysaccharides. In such cases, tea consumption may actually support disease recovery.
Patients are advised to consult their doctor before taking medication to determine whether drinking tea is appropriate. If discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly and use medications as directed under professional guidance to facilitate recovery.
