Studies on the “Xiehuo” Effect and Compositions of Guangdong Herbal Tea

In recent years, people are concerned about the “xiehuo” effect of Guangdong Herbal Tea (GHT). Study results found that GHT not only elevated the decreased levels of neurotransmitters and reduced immunocompetence in restraint stressed mice, but also prevented stressed mice against liver injury and inflammation. We also noticed that GHT accelerated the utilization of sugar energy and improved the capability of lipid tolerance in stressed mice. These results indicated that the effect of GHT on “xiehuo” may be related to its anti-stress effects. The results of mechanism study showed that GHT had the effects of anti-stress by regulating RNS and ROS generation in cells of restrained mice, at the same time regulating the activities and gene expressions of the key enzymes in the free radical chain reaction. Therefore, the anti-stress mechanism of GHT was related, at least partly, to the protection effect against oxidative stress in stress-loaded organisms. The main compounds of GHT identified were Gallic acid, Protocatechuic acid, (+)-Catechin, 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid, Caffeic acid, Ellagic acid-4-O-xylopyranoside, Isoquercitrin, and Ellagic acid. Results showed that most of these compounds are the active ingredients that are responsible for the “xiehuo” effect of GHT.