Side Effects and Risks

Despite the health benefits of oolong tea, people may still get some side effects and risks, most of which are caused by caffeine in oolong tea.

Effect of Caffeine

The excessive intake of caffeine may cause insomnia, anxiety, palpitation, dizziness, headache, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Drug Interactions

Caffeine in oolong tea will interact with a variety of drugs, which may result in reduced or enhanced efficacy, or affect the normal metabolism of caffeine and increase the risk of side effects. Common drugs to be avoided include adenosine (arrhythmia), Beta-lactam antibiotic, benzodiazepines, propranolol and metoprolol (hypertensive drugs), aspirin.

For people taking relevant drugs, please consult your doctor before drinking oolong tea.

Sensitivity to Caffeine

Sensitivity to caffeine usually triggers the symptoms such as itchy skin, hives or skin rashes.

Pregnancy

Excessive caffeine can affect fetal development and increase the risk of miscarriage.

Disease Deterioration

Patients with kidney disease, heart disease, anxiety, and stomach ulcers are not recommended to drink oolong tea. Caffeine is a diuretic that affects kidneys; it increases stomach acid and worsens stomach ulcers. Excessive caffeine can cause heart palpitations, affect blood pressure, and pose a high risk to heart disease.

Although oolong tea is a great drink, excessive intake will still generate side effects. Please consult your doctor considering the risk of deteriorating some diseases.