Exploring the immunomodulatory potential of Ceylon organic black tea through in vivo studies using a mouse model

Black tea is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, derived from Camellia sinensis. Bioactive molecules, including polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, free amino acids, polysaccharides, and saponins, are rich in black tea. These bioactive molecules contribute to the anti-inflammatory, anticancer, immunomodulatory, and cardiovascular protective effects. This study aimed to determine the immunomodulatory and toxicity effects of organically grown Ceylon black tea in a mouse model. Black tea infusion was orally administered to mice at the recommended animal dose for six days. Milliplex® Map 38-plex human cytokine/chemokine magnetic bead-based panel and Luminex® MAGPIX® platform were used to determine the expression levels of GM- CSF, IFN- γ, IL- 2, IL- 4, IL-6, IL- 10, IL-12 (p70), TNF-α, MIP-1β, and RANTES in selected time points. The results indicated immunomodulatory effects in the Ceylon organic black teatreated group compared to the controls. Therefore, the current study highlights the immunomodulatory potential of organic black tea, demonstrating its ability to regulate key cytokine expression levels in a controlled and balanced manner. According to the findings of the histopathological examination, animals treated with Ceylon organic black tea for 28 days showed normal healthy morphology similar to that of the control group. The present study suggests that black tea exhibits an immunomodulatory effect and is safe for regular consumption, especially at 2 g/per animal. By comprehensively evaluating both immunomodulatory and toxic effects of Ceylon organic black tea, this study has contributed novel insights to the field.