Camellia Sinensis and its Potential Role in Breast Cancer Prevention and Management: A Review

Camellia sinensis, the plant source of green, black, and oolong tea, is widely recognized for its rich content of polyphenolic compounds and long-standing medicinal value. Green tea, in particular, has attracted considerable scientific interest due to its potential role in the prevention and management of chronic diseases, including cancer. This review aims to critically summarize and evaluate existing preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the anticancer potential of Camellia sinensis against breast cancer. Numerous studies have demonstrated that bioactive constituents of green tea, especially catechins such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), exert inhibitory effects on breast cancer development through multiple biological mechanisms. These include suppression of cancer cell proliferation, induction of programmed cell death, modulation of estrogen-related signaling pathways, and inhibition of angiogenesis and metastasis. In addition, the strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of green tea polyphenols contribute to their protective role against oxidative stress-mediated breast carcinogenesis. Collectively, the available evidence highlights Camellia sinensis as a promising natural agent with potential complementary value in breast cancer prevention and therapy. However, further well-designed clinical studies are necessary to establish its clinical efficacy, safety, and optimal therapeutic application.