Catechins and their derivatives, the main component of polyphenols in tea, have been found to have strong antiviral effects. They have strong inhibitory effects on various viruses, especially for influenza virus, which is considered as a potential antiviral precursor. It was found that tea catechins and their derivatives may be the priority compounds in the design of anti-influenza drugs. This paper reviews the history of the inhibition of influenza virus by catechins and their derivatives, and reviews its action mechanism and clinical research progress, which provides reference for the further research of tea polyphenols against influenza virus.