Can You Be Allergic To Tequila? Signs & Symptoms (2023)

Last Updated on December 29, 2022 by Lydia Martin

Tequila is one of our go-to alcoholic drinks to order at a bar or a party. After all, what’s a party without tequila shots?

But the question is – can you be allergic to tequila? Here’s what we found out. 

Can Tequila Trigger Allergy?

If you already have pre-existing allergies- then yes, tequila can trigger allergies. The severity of allergic response varies for each person. Some could only feel alcohol flush, while others could experience life-threatening symptoms. 

However, real alcohol allergy is rare. Alcohol intolerance is the more common thing.

Alcoholic beverages, like tequila, contain ingredients that might cause reactions in some people.

We often believe that we are allergic to alcohol, but what we actually feel is intolerance.[1]

This happens when your immune system fails to metabolize or break down the alcohol.

Why You Could Be Allergic To Tequila?

You could experience some allergic reactions due to the ingredients. Tequila comprises at least 51% blue agave and about 49% other fillers such as corns and grains.

If you are allergic to agave and other tequila components, it could trigger an allergic reaction or alcohol flush.

What Happens When You Accidentally Drink It?

Drinking alcohol by accident causes alcohol flush and allergic response. Depending on the tolerance level, it could be dangerous. 

However, there are ways to alleviate symptoms. We recommend drinking in moderation to avoid any allergic reaction. Also, is tequila a depressant or a stimulant?

Alcohol Intolerance and Allergic Reaction/s May Include:

• Anaphylaxis  – A severe reaction that can include a rapid, weak pulse, low blood pressure, nausea, and vomiting.
• Hives – An outbreak of pale red bumps or welts on the skin that appear suddenly. This is more common to Asian descents.
• Asthma – Tequila and other alcoholic beverages do not cause asthma. However, it could trigger symptoms that are already pre-existing.
• Coughing – Alcohol allergy often leads to nausea and lightheadedness. These factors can cause coughing and an itchy mouth.
• Itchy, Watery Eyes – Alcohol intake increases sugar levels in your blood, causing the lenses of your eyes to swell. It often results in blurry vision and itchy, irritated eyes.

Does Being Allergic To Tequila Mean Being Allergic To Mezcal?

It depends. For health enthusiasts, mezcal is considered cleaner.

While tequila is only distilled from blue agave, mezcal can be distilled with a wide variety of agave(including blue agave). If you’re allergic to agave, you should be wary of both.[2]

But, by law, mezcal must contain 100 percent agave, leaving no room for anything artificial. That means less allergy from other factors such as corn, grains, and other fillers. But what can you mix with tequila?

FAQs

Can you develop an allergy to tequila?

Not really. You can not develop an allergic response from just tequila alone. But, perhaps, it can trigger common symptoms from pre-existing allergies. An allergic reaction is often due to alcohol intolerance.

Tequila has a lower histamine content than red wine and beer, which is a troublesome component for low-tolerant drinkers. But can tequila make you angry?

Can you be allergic to just tequila?

Not really. You could be allergic to agave present in tequila and mezcal. All alcoholic drinks ( not just tequila) can trigger an allergic response and other symptoms due to alcohol intolerance and food allergy to the ingredients.

Final Thoughts

If you have experienced some symptoms like hives or itchy eyes after drinking tequila, it’s best to steer clear of it for now.

You can visit an allergist to determine if you are indeed allergic to tequila or any alcohol, for that matter.

References:

1. https://www.ramapo.edu/aod/alcohol-allergies-exist/
2. https://www.organicauthority.com/energetic-health/