Herbal tea has become sort of a culture in many countries. Compared to coffee, tea can actually be consumed in relatively large amounts without any risk. People who love it can average anywhere from 3 to 8 cups daily. However, there are associated adverse effects that come with tea overdose. You need to watch out for these as well.

Green Tea

Some people show hypersensitivity reactions with green tea. Others develop the condition after long-term use characterized by hives, swelling of ears, lips, tongue and face, difficulty breathing, closing of the throat and skin irritation. Another grave side effect that can be caused by heavy and long-term consumption of green tea is esophageal cancer. There are agents that remain and accumulate in the esophageal area leading to the development of cysts and tumors.

Too much green tea can cause a variety of side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, nervousness, irritability, mood swings, interrupted sleep, cardiac arrhythmia, headache, heartburn, loss of appetite, gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea and constipation. It can also interact with other substances thereby causing problems. Do not drink tea if you’re taking blood thinners like warfarin or Coumadin or it might cause hemorrhage or internal bleeding.

Black Tea

Black tea contains caffeine and should be taken moderately in order to avoid kidney, blood sugar and gastrointestinal problems. High amounts of it can lead to cardiac arrhythmia, insomnia, interrupted sleep, hypertension, hyponatremia, low potassium levels, urinary incontinence, liver disease, skin rash, internal bleeding or hemorrhage, kidney failure, anxiety, irritability, psychosis, delirium, seizure, muscle and joint spasm and rhabdomyolysis. A cup of black tea on the average contains about 200 to 300 milligrams of caffeine. 1000 milligrams of caffeine reportedly can be fatal.

Addiction is also expected among individuals taking it in large doses. Chronic intake can cause substance tolerance and psychological dependence. Upon discontinuation, withdrawals symptoms will also occur characterized by nausea, vomiting, headache, mood swings, tremor, dizziness, anxiety, nervousness and irritability. People suffering from psychological disorders should not take black tea as it can aggravate symptoms of mania, depression and confusion.

Other Herbal Tea Effects

Herbal teas in general have been suggested to be contributory to the development of cancer. There seem to be carcinogenic effects that come with chronic use. Teas high in tannin may lead to iron deficiency and microcytic anemia. Other associated effects are liver and kidney failure and bronchial and respiratory problems.

Individuals with underlying conditions like thyroid problems, pregnancy, cardiovascular and heart conditions and kidney disease and those who are taking medications should consult their doctors first before taking any type of herbal tea. Doctors recommend that individuals limit intake to 2 or 3 cups per day or less.

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