Certain teas can cause hives or itching of the skin because some teas contain herbs that you may be allergic to. In some cases, you may experience oral allergy syndrome, a condition that causes itching in your mouth after drinking certain herbal teas. This condition is found among people who've been diagnosed with hay fever, or allergic rhinitis. If you notice hives, facial swelling or general itching after drinking a certain tea, call your doctor and describe your symptoms. Avoid drinking that particular tea again, until you can be evaluated by your physician.
Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction can occur any time you introduce a new substance into your body. Because many teas are made from herbs, your body's immune system may not recognize the substance, which can trigger an allergic reaction. Shortly after you drink the tea, your immune system will mistake the ingredients as a dangerous substance. This will cause your body to fight against the ingredients in the tea by creating immunoglobulin E, or IgE antibodies, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
Hives
Hives are an allergic skin reaction that develops quickly after you ingest an allergen. Hives are extremely itchy and develop in clusters of welts. The size of the welts can range from tiny spots to large clusters a few inches in diameter, according to the Mayo Clinic. Hives can come and go and develop in various shapes and sizes for no apparent reason. Hives are a sign of an allergy and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can result in death. If you notice that your face is swollen, you cannot breathe and you feel lightheaded, call 911 immediately.
Oral Allergy Syndrome
If you're allergic to ragweed pollen, you may develop itchy skin in your mouth, lips and throat after drinking chamomile tea, according to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Certain proteins found in fruits, vegetables and nuts may be confused by your immune system as a specific tree, grass or weed pollen. When this occurs, your body may release histamine in the generalized area of your mouth and throat, causing skin irritation and itching. Dandelions are sometimes used in herbal teas and can trigger oral allergy syndrome.
Treatment
Treatment begins with a proper diagnosis of what is causing the development of hives and itchy skin. Once identified, you should avoid consuming that substance to prevent symptoms. Hives and itchy skin can be treated with topical hydrocortisone or antihistamine lotions, according to the MayoClinic.
