Tea and its Effectiveness on Allergies: Understanding the Types of Allergies and their Causes

Allergies are classified into four types (I to IV), and each has different characteristics and causes. Types I through III are antibody-related and have immediate effects on antigens, while type IV is not related to antibodies and is activated by lymph. The effects of type IV allergies take several days to show symptoms. Atopic dermatitis, allergic nasal inflammation, bronchial asthma, and hives are examples of type I allergies, while dermatitis and pancreas diseases fall under type IV.

Cause and Remedies for Type I Allergies

Type I allergies are caused by isolating chemical transmitter histamine from obesity cells through idiosyncrasy antibody (IgE) produced by certain foods, pollens, and vermin. Anti-histamine and medicine to prevent chemical transmitter from being off obesity cells are applied for remedies.

Effect of Tea, Catechins, and Epigallocatechin Gallate on Type I Allergies

The main physiological function of tea, catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate, prevents histamine from being off obesity cells. Drinking tea that contains active components such as partially methylated epigallocatechin gallate has been reported to prove a strong anti-allergy effect. The active components are found in Japanese black teas, “Benihomare” and “Benifuuki,” and some kinds of oolong teas in Taiwan.

Effect of Methylized Epigallocatechin Gallate on Type IV Allergies

Methylated epigallocatechin gallate is proven to be effective against type IV allergies, but more research is necessary to confirm this effect on animal models.

Expectations for Drinking Tea Against Allergies

Although more research is necessary, the effects of drinking tea against allergies are highly anticipated.