New Delhi: On May 31, renowned hepatologist Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, widely known as The Liver Doc on social media, seriously warned about the growing liver risks linked to green tea extract supplements.
In a detailed Instagram post titled “The most dangerous supplement for your liver,” he called on both patients and physicians—primarily dermatologists—to stop using and prescribing supplements containing this widely promoted herbal extract.
Green tea extract, often found in weight loss, skin, and hair supplements, has been increasingly linked to liver toxicity and even acute liver failure. Dr Philips highlighted that this is no longer anecdotal evidence but a documented and rising medical issue in the West.
He stressed that while herbal supplement companies tout numerous health benefits, these claims are not backed by robust scientific data. He pointed out that the promotion of green tea extract is driven more by business motives than proven health outcomes.
According to Dr. Philips, pharmaceutical and supplement companies have added this extract to multivitamins and wellness products without clear warnings. More alarmingly, many dermatologists and general physicians unknowingly prescribe supplements containing green tea extract for skin, nail, or hair improvement without realizing the potential harm to the liver.
Dr. Philips urged professionals to reevaluate their prescriptions: “Dermatologists, please stop prescribing green tea extract-based supplements to your patients. They do nothing for their hair growth, skin, or nails, and are potentially liver toxic.”
He warned patients already on such supplements to immediately check ingredient labels and discard any that contain green tea extract.
This public alert adds to growing global scrutiny around the unregulated use of herbal supplements. Medical professionals are reminded to prioritize safety and evidence-based treatments, especially when dealing with vulnerable organs like the liver.
