Study Finds This Drink May Reduce Spring Allergy Sneezing

A new study suggests that matcha, the powdered green tea popular in wellness circles, may help reduce sneezing associated with seasonal allergies—not by targeting the immune system, but by calming a neural reflex in the brainstem that triggers the sneeze response.

Researchers at Hiroshima University found that mice with induced allergic rhinitis sneezed significantly less after receiving matcha extract. While standard allergy medications work by suppressing immune activity—such as histamine release and inflammation—matcha did not alter these markers. Instead, it appeared to act on the nervous system, reducing activity in a specific region of the brainstem involved in the sneeze reflex.

The study, published in npj Science of Food, indicates that matcha’s effect is not due to its anti-inflammatory properties alone, but rather its ability to modulate neural pathways. Researchers point to bioactive compounds in matcha, particularly L-theanine, an amino acid known for its calming effects on the brain, as potential contributors to this mechanism.

Unlike conventional antihistamines or nasal sprays, which can cause side effects such as drowsiness or dryness, this neural approach offers a different pathway for managing allergy symptoms. However, the researchers emphasize that the findings are preliminary and based solely on animal studies. Human trials are needed before any clinical applications can be considered.

For the millions of people affected by seasonal allergic rhinitis each year, a treatment that targets the sneeze reflex without suppressing immunity could represent a valuable alternative—especially for those who experience adverse reactions to standard medications. Still, experts caution against drawing firm conclusions from animal data alone.

As research continues, scientists aim to identify the exact compounds in matcha responsible for this effect and determine whether similar results can be replicated in human subjects. Until then, while matcha remains a safe beverage for most, it should not be viewed as a proven treatment for allergies.