Antioxidant and inflammatory-modulating properties of ginger and bitterleaf teas

The present study evaluated the effects of ginger and bitterleaf tea infusions on redox and inflammatory balance in rats. Twenty-four Wistar rats with weights of between 160 and 180 g were assigned into four (4) groups (n = 6). The control group received distilled water, while the remaining groups were administered tea infusions of ginger, bitterleaf, or a combination of both at 5 mg/mL, respectively. Bitterleaf and ginger teas elevated the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and reduced glutathione in rat plasma and liver, while malondialdehyde levels decreased. Furthermore, ginger tea caused an increase in the expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) and reduced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). The GC-MS analysis of the teas identified 77 chemical compounds, among which gingerol and precocene I were predominant. Collectively, the findings indicate, in particular, that ginger tea may boost antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity by increasing Nrf-2 levels.