The interaction between tea polyphenols and host intestinal microorganisms: an effective way to prevent psychiatric disorders

Abstract

Tea polyphenols (TP) are the most bioactive components in tea extracts. It has been reported that TP can regulate the composition and the function of the intestinal flora. Meanwhile, intestinal microorganisms improve the bioavailability of TP, and the corresponding metabolites of TP can regulate intestinal micro-ecology and promote human health more effectively. The dysfunction of the microbiota–gut–brain axis is the main pathological basis of depression, and its abnormality may be the direct cause and potential influencing factor of psychiatric disorders. The interrelationship between TP and intestinal microorganisms is discussed in this review, which will enable us to better evaluate the potential preventive effects of TP on psychiatric disorders by modulating host intestinal microorganisms.