Research Shows Matcha Green Tea May Help with Seasonal Allergy Relief

Spring has officially sprung this year. And while the shift to warmer weather brings joy, it's also a signal for the impending arrival of seasonal allergies. Luckily, if you find yourself sneezing or dealing with itchy eyes and congestion, matcha green tea may effectively reduce your seasonally triggered allergic symptoms!

Packed with powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds such as methylated catechins, studies show that green teas such as matcha may help support your body's natural defense against allergens – even potentially offering you relief before the worst of your allergy symptoms arrive.

studies show that green teas such as matcha may help support your body's natural defense against allergens – even potentially offering you relief before the worst of your allergy symptoms arrive.

Understanding Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are allergic reactions that occur during specific times of the year. Typically, your immune system overreacts to airborne allergens like pollen from trees, grass, or weeds. This overreaction triggers the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals in the body, leading to all-too-common and frustrating symptoms such as:

Sneezing – A reflex reaction to clear allergens from your nose
Runny or Congested Nose – Caused by inflammation and mucus buildup
Itchy, Watery Eyes – A response to airborne allergens irritating your eyes
Scratchy Throat – Due to postnasal drip and irritation from pollen
Sinus Pressure and Headaches – Resulting from inflammation in nasal passages
Fatigue – Your body's immune response can leave you feeling exhausted

While over-the-counter antihistamines and allergy medications provide relief, they often cause unwanted side effects such as drowsiness or trouble sleeping. That's why many people seek natural alternatives, like matcha green tea.

5 Ways drinking matcha can help combat seasonal allergies

When it comes to allergy relief, matcha may help in the following ways:

1. Matcha has natural antihistamines

Matcha is rich in a flavonoid called quercetin, a plant compound known for its natural antihistamine properties. Quercetin helps stabilize mast cells—immune cells that release histamine in response to allergens—reducing the severity of allergic reactions.

2. Matcha has anti-inflammatory properties for sinus relief

Matcha may help relieve congestion and sinus pressure by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe during peak allergy season.

3. Matcha strengthens the immune system

Drinking matcha daily may help balance and strengthen your immune system, preventing it from overreacting to allergens. A balanced immune response can mean fewer and milder allergy symptoms over time.

4. Matcha reduces oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress can make allergy symptoms worse. The powerful antioxidants in matcha neutralize free radicals, protecting your cells and reducing the body's inflammatory response to allergens.

5. Matcha has special catechins that are easily absorbed

Methylated catechins are modified green tea catechins, such as EGCG and EGC, with an added methyl group. Studies have shown that methylated catechins are more bioavailable—up to 4-5 times easier for the body to absorb and have strong antiallergic properties that help to stabilize the body's immune response to environmental allergens.

When Should You Start Drinking Matcha for Allergy Relief?

Studies suggest that starting a green tea routine at least six weeks before peak allergy season can be the most beneficial. This allows your body time to build up quercetin and other beneficial compounds, potentially reducing the intensity of allergic reactions before they even start.

Keep in mind that even if you are already experiencing your seasonal allergy symptoms, matcha may still help provide ample relief.

How to Incorporate Matcha into Your Routine

To maximize the allergy-fighting benefits of matcha, keep the following tips in mind:

Consistent consumption early: Drinking one to two cups of matcha daily may help maximize antioxidant support. You may even want to consider drinking matcha daily before you feel the onset of your seasonal allergies.
Quality matters: Opt for high-quality, ceremonial-grade matcha to ensure maximum catechin content and purity.
Cook and blend: Adding matcha to smoothies for an extra immune-boosting kick. You can also use matcha in recipes like energy bites or chia puddings to get a daily dose in a delicious way.
Combine with honey and avoid dairy: Enjoy matcha lattes with non-dairy milk and honey for a super soothing, inflammation-fighting drink. We love this matcha with honey and macadamia milk recipe!

The bottom line: Combat common seasonal allergy symptoms with matcha tea

You don't have to wait until allergy season is in full swing to take action. By incorporating matcha into your daily routine now, you can set yourself up for a smoother, symptom-free spring.