TRANSDERMAL GREEN TEA DELIVERY EFFECTIVE.

Scientists from The State University of New Jersey used a rodent model to demonstrate transdermal (applied to the skin) delivery of tea extract may improve absorption of EGCG (potent antioxidant in green tea). Application of 50 mg/kg EGCG as a transdermal gel to SKH-1 mice resulted in higher plasma concentrations of EGCG in the animals than those previously reported for oral administration of the compound. The researchers concluded transdermal EGCG is useful for delivering prolonged levels of EGCG to plasma and tissues, and may provide an alternative to tea consumption as a dosage form of EGCG. (Natural Products Insider, May 18, 2006)