What are the symptoms of green tea allergy. How is green tea allergy diagnosed. What causes green tea allergy. Can green tea cause allergic reactions. Is it possible to be allergic to green tea. How common is green tea allergy.

Understanding Green Tea and Its Potential Allergenic Properties

Green tea, a popular beverage consumed worldwide for its numerous health benefits, can surprisingly trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. While it’s known to improve memory, reduce stress, and lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, a small percentage of people may experience adverse effects due to green tea consumption.

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology conducted a study on 11 workers at a Japanese green tea factory who exhibited symptoms of asthma and nasal allergies. The research revealed that these allergic reactions were primarily caused by epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), a potent polyphenol component found in green tea. Interestingly, the study participants only inhaled green tea dust initially. When five of them were asked to drink green tea in addition to inhalation, they developed food allergies, further confirming green tea as the allergen.

Recognizing Green Tea Allergy Symptoms

Green tea allergies can manifest in various ways. Some common symptoms include:

• Itchy or runny nose
• Sneezing
• Teary eyes
• Itchy mouth
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Hives on the skin
• Itchy skin
• Swollen face
• A general feeling of discomfort

It’s important to note that these symptoms can range from mild to severe. In some cases, individuals may experience anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

Additional Side Effects of Green Tea Consumption

While not necessarily allergic reactions, some people may experience other side effects from drinking green tea:

• Headaches or dizziness (often due to caffeine content)
• Sleeplessness or disrupted sleep patterns
• Iron deficiency (due to tannins inhibiting iron absorption)

The Composition of Green Tea: Potential Allergens

Green tea is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant and contains several components that may trigger allergic reactions. The main constituents include:

1. Caffeine

An average 8 oz (230 ml) serving of green tea contains between 30 and 50 mg of caffeine. While this is less than other caffeinated beverages like black tea or coffee, it can still cause side effects in sensitive individuals. High caffeine intake may lead to dizziness, restlessness, anxiety, or insomnia.

2. Theanine

Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that offers various health benefits, including stress relief and immune system support. However, some manufacturers may alter theanine content, potentially leading to adverse effects. It’s worth noting that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements, including green tea extracts.

3. Tannins

Tannins, also known as tannic acid, are polyphenols present in green tea. While they offer some benefits like increasing blood clotting rates and reducing blood pressure, they can also cause digestive issues such as diarrhea and stomach aches. Some reports suggest that tannins may be associated with carcinogenic activity in the body.

Diagnosing Green Tea Allergy: What to Expect

If you suspect you have a green tea allergy, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider or allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment. The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Medical history review: Your doctor will inquire about your past medical and family history, including any known allergies or sensitivities.
2. Physical examination: A thorough physical exam may be conducted to check for any visible signs of allergic reactions.
3. Allergy tests: Your healthcare provider may perform specific allergy tests to confirm the diagnosis.
4. Oral food challenge: Many doctors use an oral food test to diagnose green tea allergy definitively.

It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider if you’re taking iron supplements, as green tea can affect iron absorption in the body.

The Impact of Green Tea on Iron Absorption

Green tea contains compounds that can interfere with iron absorption in the body. This interaction is particularly significant for individuals who are already at risk of iron deficiency or those taking iron supplements. The tannins in green tea can bind to iron, making it less available for absorption in the digestive system.

For people with adequate iron stores, this effect may not be a significant concern. However, individuals with iron deficiency anemia or those at risk of developing it should be cautious about their green tea consumption. It’s advisable to consume green tea between meals rather than with iron-rich foods to minimize this effect.

Alternatives to Green Tea for Allergy Sufferers

If you’ve been diagnosed with a green tea allergy or experience adverse reactions to green tea, there are several alternatives you can consider:

• Herbal teas: Many caffeine-free herbal teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, or rooibos, offer various health benefits without the risk of green tea allergens.
• White tea: Made from the same plant as green tea but processed differently, white tea may be tolerated by some individuals who react to green tea.
• Fruit-infused water: A refreshing alternative that provides hydration and natural flavors without the risk of allergic reactions.
• Matcha alternatives: For those who enjoy the ritual of matcha preparation, there are matcha-like powders made from other plants, such as moringa or butterfly pea flower.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before introducing new beverages, especially if you have known allergies or sensitivities.

Prevention and Management of Green Tea Allergies

For individuals diagnosed with a green tea allergy, the primary method of management is avoidance. This involves carefully reading labels and being cautious of products that may contain green tea or its extracts. Some steps to prevent and manage green tea allergies include:

1. Avoiding all forms of green tea, including beverages, supplements, and foods containing green tea extracts
2. Being vigilant about cross-contamination in food preparation areas
3. Informing friends, family, and food service staff about your allergy
4. Carrying emergency medication, such as an epinephrine auto-injector, if prescribed by your doctor
5. Wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace indicating your green tea allergy

It’s important to note that green tea can be found in unexpected products, such as cosmetics, dietary supplements, and certain foods. Always check ingredient lists carefully.

The Role of Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) in Green Tea Allergy

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a potent polyphenol found in green tea and is often cited as the primary component responsible for many of green tea’s health benefits. However, it’s also the compound most frequently associated with allergic reactions to green tea.

EGCG is known for its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, including:

• Cancer prevention
• Weight loss support
• Heart disease risk reduction
• Brain function improvement

Despite these potential benefits, EGCG can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The exact mechanism of EGCG-induced allergies is not fully understood, but it’s believed to involve the immune system’s overreaction to this compound.

Interestingly, EGCG has also been found to potentially interfere with certain medications. For example, it may decrease the effectiveness of bortezomib, a chemotherapy drug used to treat multiple myeloma. This interaction underscores the importance of discussing green tea consumption with healthcare providers, especially for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

EGCG Concentration in Different Tea Types

The concentration of EGCG varies among different types of tea:

1. Green tea: Highest concentration of EGCG
2. White tea: Second highest concentration
3. Oolong tea: Moderate concentration
4. Black tea: Lowest concentration due to fermentation process

This variation in EGCG content might explain why some individuals who react to green tea may tolerate other types of tea made from the same plant.

Green Tea Allergy vs. Caffeine Sensitivity: Understanding the Difference

It’s crucial to distinguish between a true green tea allergy and caffeine sensitivity, as the symptoms and management strategies differ. Here’s a comparison:

Green Tea Allergy

• Triggered by specific components in green tea, often EGCG
• Symptoms typically include itching, hives, swelling, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis
• Reactions can occur with any amount of green tea consumption
• Requires complete avoidance of green tea and products containing green tea extracts

Caffeine Sensitivity

• Caused by an individual’s response to caffeine, not specific to green tea
• Symptoms may include jitteriness, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and insomnia
• Usually dose-dependent; small amounts may be tolerated
• Can be managed by limiting caffeine intake from all sources, not just green tea

If you’re unsure whether you’re experiencing a green tea allergy or caffeine sensitivity, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance.

The Global Prevalence of Green Tea Allergy

Green tea allergy is considered relatively rare, especially when compared to more common food allergies like peanuts or shellfish. However, the exact prevalence of green tea allergy worldwide is not well-documented due to several factors:

• Underreporting: Many cases may go undiagnosed or unreported
• Misdiagnosis: Symptoms may be attributed to other causes
• Regional variations: Prevalence may differ based on green tea consumption patterns in different countries

While comprehensive global statistics are lacking, some studies have provided insights into the occurrence of green tea allergies in specific populations:

1. Occupational exposure: The previously mentioned study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that 11 out of 218 workers (5%) in a Japanese green tea factory developed allergic symptoms.
2. General population: A survey conducted in Japan, where green tea consumption is high, found that approximately 0.9% of respondents reported adverse reactions to green tea, though not all of these were confirmed allergies.
3. Cross-reactivity: Some individuals with allergies to other plants in the Theaceae family (which includes tea plants) may also react to green tea due to cross-reactivity.

It’s important to note that as green tea consumption continues to increase globally, there may be a corresponding rise in reported cases of green tea allergies. This trend underscores the need for continued research and awareness about this relatively uncommon but potentially serious allergy.

The Future of Green Tea Allergy Research and Management

As awareness of green tea allergies grows, researchers and medical professionals are focusing on several areas to improve understanding, diagnosis, and management of this condition:

1. Improved Diagnostic Tools

Current diagnostic methods for green tea allergy can be time-consuming and potentially risky, especially in cases of severe allergies. Researchers are working on developing more accurate and less invasive diagnostic tools, such as:

• Advanced blood tests to detect specific antibodies related to green tea allergies
• Skin patch tests that can safely identify green tea sensitivities
• Genetic markers that may indicate a predisposition to green tea allergies

2. Hypoallergenic Green Tea Varieties

Scientists are exploring the possibility of developing hypoallergenic green tea varieties that retain the health benefits of traditional green tea while minimizing the risk of allergic reactions. This research involves:

• Identifying and isolating the specific compounds responsible for allergic reactions
• Genetic modification or selective breeding of tea plants to reduce allergen content
• Developing processing techniques that can reduce the allergenicity of green tea

3. Immunotherapy for Green Tea Allergies

While not currently available, researchers are investigating the potential for immunotherapy treatments specific to green tea allergies. This approach, similar to those used for other food allergies, could help desensitize individuals to green tea allergens over time.

4. Personalized Medicine Approaches

As our understanding of genetic factors influencing allergies improves, there’s potential for more personalized approaches to diagnosing and managing green tea allergies. This could involve:

• Genetic testing to identify individuals at higher risk of developing green tea allergies
• Tailored dietary recommendations based on an individual’s genetic profile
• Personalized treatment plans that take into account a person’s specific allergenic triggers and sensitivities

5. Education and Awareness

Increasing public and medical professional awareness about green tea allergies is crucial. This includes:

• Incorporating information about green tea allergies into allergy education programs
• Training food service professionals to recognize and accommodate green tea allergies
• Developing clear labeling guidelines for products containing green tea or its extracts

As research in these areas progresses, individuals with green tea allergies can look forward to improved diagnosis, management, and potentially even prevention strategies in the future. In the meantime, those who suspect they may have a green tea allergy should continue to work closely with healthcare providers to ensure proper diagnosis and management of their condition.

Green Tea Allergy – Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis

Drunk commonly in many different parts of Asia, green tea has many health benefits. Green tea is said to improve memory, reduce stress, and lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. However, green tea may cause a green tea allergy in some people.

A Brief Background

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology examined 11 workers at a Japanese green tea factory who had symptoms of asthma and nasal allergies. These allergies were caused due to green tea and mainly because of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), a potent polyphenol component of it. Such candidates only inhaled green tea dust. In order to experiment, 5 of these candidates drank green tea on top of inhaling it, and since they developed a food allergy, the results suggested that green tea was the culprit.

Consumption of food substances such as noodles or cakes that had some amounts of green tea or powder also worsened the condition of these candidates.

Green Tea Allergy Symptoms

Some of the green tea allergy symptoms include the following:

• Itchy or runny nose
• Sneezing
• Teary eyes
• Itchy mouth
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Hives on the skin
• Itchy skin
• Swollen face
• A feeling of discomfort

 Some other side-effects of green tea include:

• Headaches/dizziness: some people may experience a headache after drinking green tea and that may be a result of the caffeine content in green tea
• Sleeplessness: Drinking too much green tea may disrupt your sleeping pattern.
• It can cause iron deficiency. The tannin content in green tea does not allow the blood to absorb iron efficiently, so even if your diet contains iron-rich foods, green tea may cause you to become iron-deficient.

Green Tea Components

Green tea is a non-herbal tea and it is made from the cooked camellia Sinensis plant. It contains different components that may cause an allergic reaction. Some of these allergy-causing symptoms include theanine, caffeine, and tannins. The content of these components depends upon many factors, such as how old the tea tree was, what part of the world it was grown in and the conditions provided for its growth, and its processing and brewing.

• Caffeine

The average amount of caffeine per 230 ml or 8 oz. serving varies from 30 and 50 mg. As compared to other drinks such as black tea, espresso, or instant coffee, green tea contains comparatively fewer amounts of caffeine. Caffeine is widely consumed and does not harm your health if consumed in small amounts. However, high quantities of caffeine in the blood may lead to dizziness, restlessness, anxiety, or experiencing insomnia.

It is best to not have high amounts of caffeine in one go and instead leave some time until your next cup. Since green tea contains only a limited amount of caffeine, caffeine usually does not show its side effects due to green tea consumption.

• Theanine

Another component in the green tea composition is the amino acid theanine. Theanine is good for health if consumed in moderate amounts and has many health benefits. It acts as an anxiety and stress reliever, helps lower blood pressure, strengthens the body’s immune system, and is also used to treat tumors or cancers. However, some manufacturers may alter the theanine content, and since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not handle the supplement, the component may adversely affect health.

For example, even though theanine has proved to treat tumors, nonherbal teas like green tea may have some other amino acids that hinder the treatment of cancers. The most potent polyphenol in green tea, EGCG (also a type of tannin), can potentially decrease the effect of bortezomib, a chemotherapy drug.

• Tannins

Tannins are commonly known as tannic acid and are a group of polyphenols in teas like green tea. They have some benefits, such as increasing the rate of blood clotting and reducing blood pressure levels. However, foods having tannins do not have a high nutritional value as they reduce growth in the body and decrease energy mobilization and protein digestion.

Since tannins irritate the digestive tract, they lead to issues related to digestion, such as diarrhea and stomach aches. Some reports suggest that tannins or the processes and components associated with tannins may also lead to carcinogenic activity in the body.

Diagnosing a Green Tea Allergy

If you experience any of the green tea allergy symptoms, visit your healthcare provider or allergist immediately so he may diagnose you and treat you accordingly. Your healthcare provider will ask you about your past medical and family history.

Green tea affects the way iron gets absorbed into the body, so if you are on iron supplements, tell your provider about it. Your provider may also examine you physically and perform a few tests to check for allergies. Most doctors use an oral food test to diagnose a green tea allergy. Others may also carry out a blood test to check for allergies, such as a radioallergosorbent test (RAST).

Allergies in the body activate the immune system to produce antibodies to fight off the allergens. In a RAST test, technicians check the number of antibodies in your blood to determine what type of allergy you have. However, testing for green tea allergy using a RAST test needs some work on it.

Treating a Green Tea Allergy

The best and most direct solution to treat a green tea allergy is to remove it from your diet completely. You should also avoid matcha, black, or oolong tea since these teas are also made from the same plant, and have tannin, caffeine, and theanine contents. Some people find it hard to let go of habits and cannot easily stop themselves from its consumption. Such people should look for other alternatives such as herbal teas or pomegranate and beet juice.

To combat green tea allergy symptoms such as skin reactions like hives, swelling, and nausea, a physician may assign you antihistamines. An EpiPen is assigned to those who have anaphylaxis due to an intense allergy and helps with epinephrine treatment.

Risks and Complications

• If you are pregnant, it is best to avoid green tea since the caffeine content will not allow your baby to sleep properly. It may also reduce your baby’s
• People with ulcers in their stomach lining should avoid green tea since it will only make it worse.
• If you are on chemotherapy, consult your doctor about green tea consumption.
• Since green tea contains caffeine which is a stimulant and may increase anxiety or increase the risk of issues related to the heart, children under 12 years of age should not consume it.
• Some people are sensitive to caffeine and may experience irritability, uneasiness, or restlessness after green tea consumption due to the caffeine content. These people are recommended to avoid green tea.

See Also: Alpha-Gal Allergy 

Conclusion

Green tea comes with many benefits, and its consumption all around the world is proof of its advantages. However, the components in green tea, such as caffeine and tannins may have adverse effects, which is why green tea consumption should be limited. Even though a green tea allergy is rare, if you experience any of the green tea allergy symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. We at Family Medicine Austin, have the facilities to diagnose allergies and help you with a follow-up treatment to ensure the quality of your life.

Why It Occurs, Symptoms, and How to Navigate

Whether it’s hot or iced, caffeinated or herbal, nothing is more soothing than a cup of tea — unless you’re allergic to it.

Tea allergies, while not unheard of, are rare. More commonly, people experience a sensitivity, or intolerance, to tea.

In this article, we’ll go over the differences between tea allergies and tea sensitivities. We’ll also discuss the various ingredients of tea that may spark allergic reactions, as well as tea alternatives.

Like all allergies, tea allergies create an immune response. This occurs when your body mistakenly perceives a substance as dangerous and tries to fight it off by producing antibodies. When triggered, these antibodies cause specific symptoms to occur.

If you have an allergy to tea, your symptoms may include:

• hives
• tingling or itching sensation in the mouth
• swelling of the lips, throat, tongue, or face
• anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency

Anaphylaxis is a rare, severe type of allergic reaction. It’s potentially life threatening and a medical emergency.

If you or someone around you has symptoms of anaphylaxis, call 911 or go to an emergency room immediately.

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Allergy vs. sensitivity

The symptoms of tea intolerance or sensitivity differ somewhat from those of tea allergy. If you have an intolerance or sensitivity to tea, your symptoms may include:

• nausea and vomiting
• diarrhea
• stomach cramps or pain
• heartburn
• bloating
• feelings of irritability

Teas are categorized as either herbal or nonherbal. You may be allergic or sensitive to components found in either or both types.

If you have an allergy to any component found in tea, you should avoid it completely. If you have a sensitivity to these compounds, you may be able to tolerate them in small amounts, particularly if your tea is only lightly brewed.

Nonherbal tea

Nonherbal teas — which include black, green, oolong, and white teas — contain varying amounts of the same components. It’s these components that cause allergic reactions or sensitivity in some people.

Components of nonherbal tea that can spark an allergic reaction include:

• caffeine
• tannins
• theanine

If you’re allergic to caffeine, avoid black tea.

One 2016 study found black tea contains the highest caffeine content of all nonherbal teas. Green tea was found to contain the most tannin, and both white and green tea contained more theanine than black tea.

Herbal tea

Herbal teas are made from the roots, leaves, stems, and flowers of an almost uncountable number of botanicals.

When choosing any herbal tea, make sure to read the ingredients list, so you can avoid substances you’re allergic or sensitive to.

Here are some of the different families of flower that may cause an allergic reaction for some people when used in tea.

Asteraceae family

There are several popular teas that are part of the Asteraceae (daisy) family.

One of these teas is chamomile. In rare cases, chamomile has been linked to allergic reactions when ingested or used topically.

If you’re allergic to any flowers or pollens in this family, you may be allergic or sensitive to chamomile. Flowers in this family include:

• ragweed
• daisies
• marigolds
• chrysanthemums

Echinacea is another botanical in the Asteraceae family that’s used to make tea. It may also cause allergic reactions in some people.

Malvaceae family

Hibiscus is a member of the Malvaceae family and may cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to other plants in this family, such as hollyhocks.

Hibiscus also contains tannins and may cause a reaction to people with a tannin allergy.

For those people who find themselves living with a tea allergy, there are options available.

Try a different tea

There’s a dizzying array of both herbal and nonherbal teas to choose from. Chances are, if you’re allergic to one kind of tea, you’ll be able to enjoy another.

Try switching from herbal to nonherbal tea or vice versa. You may also swap out black tea for green, or you may try white tea if caffeine is a concern.

Adjust the steeping time

The length of time you brew any cup of tea will affect the quantity of allergens it contains.

If you have only a mild sensitivity to tea elements such as tannins, a light dunk instead of a long steep may be all you need in order to enjoy your favorite type.

Pick a different drink

Unfortunately, some people may not be able to drink tea at all based on their allergies. If this is the case, there are still ways to get the benefits of tea from other beverages.

Many herbal teas contain beneficial ingredients, like antioxidants. If you’re unable to tolerate most kinds of tea, you can also opt for drinks such as pomegranate or tomato juice.

On a hot day, ice water with lemon, lime, or cucumber slices can easily be swapped in for iced tea.

Tea allergies are rare, but they’ve been known to occur.

Nonherbal teas contain caffeine, tannins, and other components that can cause allergic reactions in some people. There are many types of herbal tea, some of which contain tannins and other compounds that can cause allergic reactions.

Herbal teas contain herbs that may come from families of flowers that are associated with allergic reactions in many people. The herbal tea most commonly linked to allergic reactions is chamomile.

If you’re allergic to one type of tea, you may be able to tolerate other types. Always read the ingredient label so that you can identify possible allergens.

Allergen f222 – tea, IgE (ImmunoCAP)

Quantification in the blood of specific class E immunoglobulins to the leaf tea allergen – f222.

Synonyms Russian

Class E specific immunoglobulins for tea.

Synonyms English

ImmunoCAP f222 – leaf tea, Camellia sinensis.

Test method

Solid phase immunofluorescence (ImmunoCAP).

Units

kU/l (kilo unit of allergen per litre).

What biomaterial can be used for research?

Venous blood.

How to properly prepare for an examination?

• Do not smoke for 30 minutes before the test.

General information about the study

An allergic reaction when drinking tea is caused by the allergen – protein f222. This protein applies to any leaf tea – both black and green. However, often an allergic reaction can be caused by various additives and flavorings, and not by the tea leaf itself. A lot of dyes, flavors, etc. are added to many types of tea. If herbs are included in the tea mixture, they can also cause an allergic reaction. Biologically active substances in them can cause food intolerance. There may also be an individual intolerance to the chemicals that make up the tea, a genetic predisposition to this food allergy and diseases of the digestive system, in which the use of tea has a negative effect. Sometimes the symptoms in such cases are very similar to an allergic reaction and can easily be confused.

Allergy to tea can be expressed in different ways. These can be rashes on the body, severe itching and sharp pain in the head, coughing, burning eyes, watery eyes, as well as nausea, weakness, burning sensation in the mouth and nasal mucosa. In severe cases, an attack of suffocation is possible. Sometimes the first symptoms appear after a week, but there are times when the reaction occurs instantly.

The purpose of this study is the determination of specific IgE to tea allergens by the ImmunoCAP method, which is characterized by high accuracy and specificity. Diagnosis using ImmunoCAP, based on the immunofluorescent method, is recommended by WHO and the World Allergy Organization as the “gold standard” for determining the concentration of IgE antibodies.

What is research used for?

• Diagnosis of tea allergy;
• differential diagnosis of the causes of food allergies, as well as the development of allergic diseases and their exacerbations in children and adults.

When is the test ordered?

• If tea sensitization is suspected;
• in the event of allergy symptoms after drinking tea, which are manifested by urticaria, angioedema, headache, gastrointestinal disorders.

What do the results mean?

Reference values: 0.00 – 0.35 kU/L.

Reasons for the increased result:

• sensitization to tea.

Reasons for the negative result:

• no sensitization to this allergen;
• prolonged restriction or exclusion of contact with the allergen.

Important Notes

• Performing this test is safe for the patient compared to skin tests (in vivo), as it eliminates the patient’s exposure to the allergen. Taking antihistamines and age characteristics do not affect the quality and accuracy of the study.

Also recommended

• Serum total immunoglobulins E (IgE)
• Fadiatop (ImmunoCAP)
• Fadiatop Child (ImmunoCAP)
• Allergen f221 – coffee beans, IgE (ImmunoCAP)
• Allergen f93 – cocoa, IgE (ImmunoCAP)
• Allergen f405 – mint, IgE

+ determination of class E specific immunoglobulins to other allergens

Who orders the study?

Allergist, gastroenterologist, dermatologist, pediatrician, internist, general practitioner.

Literature

• Pediatric Allergy: Principles and Practice, 18, 167-176.
• Henry’s Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods, Chapter 55, 1057-1070.
• Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, Chapter 146, 1121-1124.
• Pollen – Food Syndrome. Antonella Muraro and Cristiana Alonzi. Food Allergy, Chapter 7, 83-98.
• www.phadia.com. ImmunoCAP Allergens.

can it be green, black, hibiscus, willowherb, chamomile and other herbal? Intolerance in a child, adult men and women with breastfeeding

Skin rashes, swelling, sore throat that occur after each cup of tea drunk and disappear after a while may indicate an allergy.

But before you give up your favorite drink, you should find out what is the reason for the negative reaction. It may be due to individual intolerance not only to the tea leaf, but also to the additional components that make up the tea leaves.

Could it be?

Allergy to tea is the stronger, the larger the amount drunk. However, it rarely occurs, only with an increased reaction of the body to a specific F222 protein. Much more often the cause is additives: aromatic and medicinal herbs, artificial colors and fragrance.

If the tea leaves are stored incorrectly, a fungus, which is a strong allergen, multiplies in it. If the tea was in bags, the material from which they were made may be the cause.

In adult men and women

Before using a new herbal tea, its composition should be studied. Natural vitamin supplements in the form of dried fruits and leaves of raspberries, strawberries, blueberries or lingonberries can only be beneficial if they do not have an individual intolerance.

Significantly more often, allergies occur to medicinal herbs containing potent substances.

During pregnancy

Expectant mothers should not consume tea leaves containing certain herbs. Even if they contain useful substances.

Tripartite and strawberries can cause congenital allergies in a child. Even in the absence of its external signs of celandine, wormwood, spinach, seaweed lead to intrauterine malformations. And the infusion of parsley, oregano, calendula, sage, thyme – to terminate the pregnancy.

In infants with breastfeeding

The caffeine contained in tea leaves passes into breast milk. Therefore, you need to brew it weakly and drink no more than 3 glasses a day. It is best to drink white tea from lightly fermented unopened buds.

Herbal preparations for the period of breastfeeding should be abandoned. Even if the supplements consist only of dried berries. On them, as well as artificial dyes, the baby may experience an allergy in the absence of one in the mother and regardless of the type of tea.

In an older child

Due to the large amount of caffeine and alkaloids, black tea is not recommended for children under 3 years old, and green tea for children under 12. The child’s body reacts more strongly to allergens. Therefore, accustom him to a drink should be gradual. And herbal preparations should be given only as prescribed by a doctor.

The most common cause of skin rashes in children is tea with artificial flavors and flavors.

Varieties and types

Most often, individual intolerance manifests itself when using only one or several varieties of tea, while other varieties do not cause any adverse reactions.

The onset of tea allergy symptoms can occur either immediately after drinking the drink, or after 3-4 hours, making it difficult to identify the product that caused it.

Black

This drink is stronger and therefore has a higher concentration of F222 protein. High caffeine content is another trigger. Increasing cases of allergy to black tea are associated with the addition of synthetic substances to it that enhance the taste and aroma. As well as pieces of fruit and dried berries.

Green

Due to the high content of catechins, the drink reduces the negative manifestations of various types of allergies. But these same substances can cause it with individual intolerance.

In other cases, a pathological reaction to green tea may occur only in the presence of additives. Including aromatic herbs that are put to improve the taste.

Matcha

The product is a powder of young green tea leaves. Contains many more antioxidants than a regular green drink. And does not include additives that can cause allergies.

However, during the preparation of Matcha, almost all of the lead contained in it is released and enters the drink. What does not happen when brewing loose leaf tea. It is better to give preference not to Chinese, but to Japanese varieties that are grown in ecologically safe areas.

Hibiscus

A drink made from dried hibiscus flowers contains a large amount of useful substances and helps with many diseases. Allergies most often occur with a similar reaction to red fruits and vegetables. But it can appear when using raw materials prepared in an artisanal way, or interacting with certain drugs.

Chamomile

Adverse reactions from chamomile flower tea are rare, mostly in people with seasonal allergies. However, it can serve as a catalyst when mixed with other herbs. An additional risk arises when taken concomitantly with sedatives or diuretics.

Ivan-chai

Due to the high content of trace elements, the drink is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to any of them. At the same time, in the absence of a negative reaction, it helps to deal with the consequences of allergies.

With bergamot, jasmine and other additives

Bergamot peel is a strong allergen. Therefore, tea with it should be discarded if there is intolerance to the essential oils of any of the citrus fruits.

If you are allergic to other herbal supplements, the jasmine flower drink should be tried for the first time with great care, observing the reaction of the body. Ginger tea causes allergies in about 20% of people. When drinking with any new supplement, start with half the dose.

Greenfield, Richard and Tess

In some cases, Greenfield tea bag allergies have been reported in people who have previously drunk loose tea with the same additives, but without adverse effects. This is especially true for bright red drinks.

Richard teabags are more likely to cause adverse reactions than loose teas from the same manufacturer. It is not uncommon to be allergic to Tess tea. This is due to the presence of a large amount of synthetic dyes and fragrances in the tea leaves.

Symptoms and diagnosis

The most common skin reaction to an allergen: redness, rash, blisters. Symptoms are nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, bouts of dry cough. There may be swelling of various parts of the body, the most dangerous is swelling of the larynx.

With continued use of the drink, the symptoms progress and if left untreated can lead to anaphylactic shock. It is necessary to stop using it for a while. And to diagnose and identify the substance that caused the allergy, consult a doctor. In some cases, laboratory tests will be needed.

How to get rid of?

Injection tests help identify which tea leaves are allergic to. You can get rid of it by changing the type of tea.

At the first symptoms, in order to remove the provoking substance from the body, it is necessary to drink 1-1.5 liters of water and take an antihistamine (Tavegil, Fenistil). With swelling of the nasal mucosa, Nazivin and Opatanol help. Bepanthen ointment is used to reduce itching. If after this the symptoms do not disappear, you need to call a doctor.

Do herbs help?

Antihistamine herbal preparations may be used to treat seasonal and other allergies. Nettle tincture makes it possible to soften its manifestations and cleanse the blood of substances that caused discomfort.

Ginger tea helps with symptoms such as asthma and skin rashes. Chamomile infusion helps to cope with rhinitis and nettle fever. However, with hypersensitivity to any of the components of the herbal collection, it can cause an allergic reaction.

African rooibos tea (red) contains a large amount of antioxidants and alleviates the symptoms of hay fever, bronchial edema, skin eczema.

Kombucha tincture has a positive effect on the intestinal microflora, changes in which often cause allergies. It is recommended to prepare it from diluted green tea leaves with a small amount of celandine.

What to replace?

If food intolerance applies to all varieties of tea, it is best to replace it not with a collection of medicinal herbs, but with a drink made from the leaves and fruits of garden plants that are not allergic to: strawberries, raspberries, currants, sea buckthorn.

In the morning, a tonic tincture of lemongrass is suitable, in the evening – mint leaves, lemon balm, cherries. In winter, a vitamin drink made from rose hips is useful.

Useful video

Watch a video about allergies and how to deal with them.

Reviews

Usually, the cause of allergies is not black or green tea leaves, but various additives, synthetic and natural.