Researchers from Kumamoto University studied the effects of matcha tea powder on socially isolated people
In their experiments, scientists used twogroups of genetically modified mice: resistant and susceptible to stress. Both groups were subjected to social isolation before the start of the experiment. After that, all the animals were given tea. Analysis using a tail-suspension test showed that matcha reduced symptoms consistent with depression in stress-sensitive mice.
Matcha tea shortened the time of immobility only instress-susceptible mice, which experienced more stress due to social isolation and showed more pronounced depressive behavior compared to stress-resistant mice.
Yuki Kurauchi, Head of Research
Scientists conducted an immunohistochemical analysis of the brainmice by combining anatomical, immunological and biochemical methods to visualize individual tissue components. They found that in stressed mice, matcha tea activated the prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens.
The prefrontal cortex is the area of the brain thatmost sensitive to stress, while NAc plays a key role in response to rewards. Both departments control the level of dopamine in the brain. Activation of the prefrontal cortex and NAc causes a surge in dopamine levels, improving mood. In stress-resistant mice, a similar effect was not observed. What's more, when stress-susceptible mice were given a dopamine D1 receptor blocker, the tea's effects disappeared.
Scheme of the experiment. Image: Yuki Kurauchi et al., Nutrients
The results of the study show that matchaIt has an antidepressant effect by activating the dopaminergic system of the brain. This effect affects the mental state. They believe that further research will help develop effective antidepressants and understand how differences in mental state in people affect the effectiveness of therapy.
Matcha is a traditional Japanese tea.It is a fine powder made from the leaves of the Chinese camellia (Camellia sinensis), the same plant used to make white, green, black and oolong teas.
Depression can be a serious illnessespecially if it is periodically repeated and proceeds in a moderate or severe form. Self-treatment can lead to dangerous consequences. To diagnose depressive disorders and determine an individual treatment regimen, you need to contact a specialist.
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