White blood cells are a central component of the immune system. They help defend the body against foreign invaders such as viruses and bacteria and also play an important role in regulating inflammation. Among the substances produced by white blood cells are lactoferrin and myeloperoxidase. Lactoferrin has antimicrobial properties and contributes to innate immune defense, while myeloperoxidase is an enzyme involved in microbial killing and inflammatory processes through its oxidizing activity.
A study published in the Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine (2015 Dec;12(4):277–282. doi:10.1515/jcim-2014-0042) investigated whether supplementation with green tea extract could influence white blood cell function. In this study, healthy volunteers consumed 300 mg of green tea extract daily for 14 days.
Researchers assessed the ability of circulating white blood cells to release myeloperoxidase and lactoferrin before and after supplementation. After two weeks, participants showed increased leukocyte activity, along with an improvement in total plasma antioxidant status.
The authors concluded that short-term supplementation with green tea extract may enhance certain aspects of white blood cell function and antioxidant defenses, suggesting a possible role in supporting inflammatory balance. Further research is needed to determine clinical relevance and long-term effects.
