Powdered green tea matcha can reduce the frequency of sneezing in allergic rhinitis. This conclusion was reached by Japanese researchers. This is reported by npj Science of Food.
Professor Osamu Kaminuma from Hiroshima University studied the effect of matcha on laboratory mice that were artificially induced with seasonal allergy symptoms. The animals were given the drink two to three times a week for more than five weeks. Additionally, an extra dose was administered about half an hour before contact with the allergen.
Observations showed that the mice receiving matcha experienced significantly fewer sneezing episodes. The drink had little effect on the main immune mechanisms of the allergic reaction: levels of immunoglobulin E and other key indicators changed very little.
The researchers suggest that the effect may be related to matcha's impact on the nervous system. Specialists examined the activity of the c-Fos gene — an indicator of neuron excitation in response to strong stimuli. In allergic mice, its activity sharply increased, but after consuming matcha, it decreased almost to normal levels.
The authors of the study believe that in the future, matcha could be used as an additional natural remedy to alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis alongside traditional therapy. It has also been previously reported that the drink is rich in antioxidants and amino acids and can positively affect the cardiovascular system and inflammatory processes.
