In recent years, the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa has become resistant to multiple types of antibiotics. Responsible for serious bloodstream and respiratory tract infections, it currently takes a plethora of antibiotics to fight off P. aeruginosa. And as more time passes, this bacteria is becoming more resistant to even the failsafe antibiotics. So how does green tea correlate to this?
Green tea commonly contains epigallocatechin, or EGCG, which is a natural antioxidant that can reduce resistance to the antibiotic aztreonam.
A research team at the University of Surrey ran tests to compare how P. aeruginosa reacted to aztreonam alone, and aztreonam paired with EGCG. The combination of both was significantly more effective at reducing the bacteria than just the antibiotic alone. While the study couldn’t suggest a reason as to why EGCG has this effect – potentially by blocking the bacteria’s ability to fight back, or by weakening the bacteria’s walls so the antibiotic could destroy it easier – the results are undeniable.
One of the greatest threats to our health is antimicrobial resistance, or AMR. Our bodies depend on our ability to fight off infections and diseases. If antibiotics are unable to reduce dangerous bacteria, then we are placed in a dangerous position. Research studies such as these are crucial in finding ways to protect ourselves as bacteria strains mutate and change. And while green tea doesn’t strengthen every antibiotic, it shows how the right natural treatment can make all the difference.
To read the original article, please click here. Credit goes to Dr. Peter D’Adamo for finding the article.
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