Regular black tea habit could reduce tobacco associated ROS generation and DNA damage in oral mucosa of normal population

► Role of black tea on tobacco induced ROS and DNA damage in oral epithelium was studied. ► High ROS level and DNA damage were seen in tobacco users of all age groups. ► Tea habit reduced the ROS level and DNA damage in tobacco users of all age groups. ► Tea habit lowered the expression of IκB, NF-κB, p53 and MLH1 in tobacco users. ► Black tea habit has antigenotoxic effect in oral epithelium induced by tobacco.