Can Jasmine Tea Reduce Inflammation? Exploring the Science Behind the Floral Brew

October 26, 2025 •

4 min read

Several animal and test-tube studies show that the antioxidant-rich properties of the tea base in jasmine tea can significantly help suppress inflammation. The question, can jasmine tea reduce inflammation, hinges on these powerful polyphenols and how they interact with the body to promote wellness and fight free radical damage.

Quick Summary

Jasmine tea, often made with a green tea base, contains potent antioxidants like EGCG and flavonoids. These compounds combat inflammation, support heart health, and may help alleviate symptoms associated with chronic inflammatory conditions.

Key Points

Source of Power: The anti-inflammatory benefits of jasmine tea primarily come from the antioxidant-rich green tea leaves used as its base.
Antioxidant Rich: It contains powerful antioxidants like catechins (especially EGCG) and flavonoids that combat free radical damage and oxidative stress.
Inhibits Cytokines: The polyphenols in the tea inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, helping to manage the body's inflammatory response.
Supports Chronic Conditions: The anti-inflammatory action may help alleviate symptoms associated with chronic conditions like arthritis and cardiovascular disease.
Heart and Oral Health: Research indicates that drinking jasmine tea can protect the heart by improving arterial function and reduce inflammation in the gums, promoting oral health.
Complementary Strategy: For best results, integrate jasmine tea into a broader, healthy diet and wellness routine, as it is a supporting tool, not a cure.

What is Jasmine Tea and Why is it Anti-Inflammatory?

Jasmine tea is not a single type of tea but a scented one, typically made by infusing green tea leaves with the fragrance of jasmine blossoms. During this process, the tea leaves naturally absorb the jasmine's aroma, which has its own soothing properties. While the floral scent is a key characteristic, the primary anti-inflammatory power comes from the base tea, which is most often green tea. This base is rich in potent antioxidants and polyphenols, the compounds responsible for its health benefits.

The Antioxidants Driving the Anti-Inflammatory Effect

Jasmine green tea is loaded with bioactive compounds that act as antioxidants, neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals contribute to a state of chronic inflammation, which is linked to numerous diseases. Key compounds include:

Catechins: A type of polyphenol particularly abundant in green tea. The most studied catechin is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects in various studies.
Flavonoids: These compounds help shield cells from damage and curb inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory molecules known as cytokines.
Phenols: Found in the tea base, these help repair damaged cells and improve oxygen flow, further reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

How Jasmine Tea Works to Reduce Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory properties of jasmine tea work through several biological pathways. The EGCG in green tea, for example, is particularly adept at blocking the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, the chemical messengers that trigger and sustain inflammatory responses in the body. By interfering with these signals, the tea can help calm an overactive inflammatory system.

Furthermore, the antioxidants in jasmine tea help prevent the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol, a key step in the development of atherosclerosis and heart disease. By protecting the body against oxidative damage, the tea supports the immune system and reduces the burden of chronic inflammation.

Scientific Evidence for Jasmine Tea's Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

While more human studies are needed, research, including laboratory and animal studies, provides strong support for the anti-inflammatory potential of jasmine green tea:

Rheumatoid Arthritis: A 2017 study on human cells found that catechins in green tea can have an anti-inflammatory effect on individuals with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting certain inflammatory processes.
Heart Health: Studies have shown that regular consumption of tea can significantly improve arterial function and reduce the risk of heart disease, primarily due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. One animal study even showed a reduction in plaque formation in hamsters.
Oral Health: Thanks to its flavonoid and catechin content, jasmine tea can promote periodontal health by reducing inflammation and limiting the growth of bacteria associated with oral diseases.
High-Fat Diet-Induced Inflammation: A study on mice indicated that cold-brewed jasmine tea helped attenuate high-fat diet-induced inflammation and improved other metabolic markers.

Jasmine Green Tea vs. Pure Green Tea: A Comparison

Since the anti-inflammatory benefits largely stem from the green tea base, it's helpful to compare pure green tea with scented jasmine green tea.


Feature	Jasmine Green Tea	Pure Green Tea
Source of Anti-Inflammatory Action	Primarily from the green tea base, enhanced by jasmine.	Exclusively from the green tea leaves.
Antioxidant Compounds	Contains high levels of catechins (EGCG) and flavonoids from the green tea, plus compounds from the jasmine flowers.	High levels of catechins (EGCG) and flavonoids.
Aroma and Flavor	Floral and sweet, with a distinct jasmine fragrance.	Vegetal, grassy, or nutty, depending on the variety and processing.
Potential Health Benefits	Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, relaxing aroma, heart health support.	Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, metabolism boost, heart health support.
Preparation	Steeping scented tea leaves. Cool the water slightly before pouring to avoid bitterness.	Steeping tea leaves. Steeping time and temperature vary by type (e.g., sencha, matcha).

Incorporating Jasmine Tea into Your Diet

Adding jasmine tea to your daily routine is a simple and enjoyable way to potentially reduce inflammation. Here are some tips:

Choose High-Quality Tea: Opt for loose-leaf jasmine green tea for the best flavor and highest concentration of beneficial compounds. The quality of the green tea base is paramount.
Brewing Techniques: To avoid bitterness and preserve antioxidants, brew with water that is slightly cooler than boiling. A temperature of around 175-185°F (80-85°C) is ideal.
Mindful Consumption: Enjoy a cup of jasmine tea during a meal or as a relaxing ritual. The soothing aroma can also have a calming effect, which can indirectly help manage stress-related inflammation.
Consider Cold-Brewing: Some studies suggest that cold-brewed tea retains its beneficial compounds effectively. It can be a refreshing alternative to hot tea, especially in warmer weather.
Pair with a Healthy Diet: Jasmine tea is not a magic cure for inflammation but should be part of a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. For a deeper understanding of the anti-inflammatory effects of green tea catechins, explore studies like this one: Catechin effects in rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the evidence strongly suggests that jasmine tea, primarily due to its green tea base, does possess potent anti-inflammatory properties. The tea's rich supply of antioxidants, particularly EGCG and other catechins, effectively combats oxidative stress and inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. From supporting heart and oral health to potentially alleviating symptoms of chronic conditions like arthritis, the benefits are well-supported by laboratory and animal research. While not a replacement for medical treatment, incorporating this delicious and aromatic brew into a healthy diet can be a valuable strategy for managing inflammation and promoting overall wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary anti-inflammatory compounds in jasmine tea are polyphenols, especially catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and flavonoids, which are sourced from its green tea base.

Not necessarily; the potent anti-inflammatory effects come from the green tea base in both. Jasmine green tea adds a relaxing aroma and may contain additional compounds from the flowers, but the anti-inflammatory power is very similar to pure green tea.

Most studies don't specify an exact dosage, but general health advice often suggests a few cups per day. For heart health, studies have noted benefits from three or more cups daily, but it is important to not overconsume tea or rely solely on it for treatment.

Jasmine tea is generally safe. However, due to its caffeine content, some people may experience jitters or sleep disturbances if consumed in excess. Those sensitive to caffeine should opt for a decaffeinated version.

Limited studies on human cells and broader research on the green tea base suggest that catechins may have an anti-inflammatory effect that could help manage symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. More research is needed, but it may offer some relief.

Opt for jasmine green tea, preferably loose-leaf, as the quality of the green tea base is the key to maximizing the anti-inflammatory compounds. Cold-brewed varieties may also be beneficial.

While the anti-inflammatory action is primarily internal, the soothing aroma of jasmine tea has a calming effect, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Lowering stress levels can have a positive, indirect impact on managing inflammation.