Allergies are a common health problem that affects millions of people worldwide, with various triggers, such as suspended particles in air, food and even plants. Although it is normally associated with plants with numerous health benefits, such as improving air quality and mood, it is important to point out that they can also be the main cause of allergies in certain people.
- Allergic reactions to plants, known as pollen allergies or hay fever, occur when the immune system becomes too sensitive to certain substances present in plants.
- Pollen, which produce flowers, trees, grasses and weeds as part of their reproductive process, is a common allergenic substance that causes seasonal allergies in many people.
In fact, it is estimated that only in the United States more than 50 million people suffer from allergies related to pollen particles present in the air.
“When plants release pollen in the air, it can be inhaled by people likely to suffer from allergies,” explains Dr. Sarah Collins, allergologist and immunologist of the renowned Institute of Research on Allergies.
Although pollen allergies are frequently associated with flowers, it is important to take into account that not all plants cause allergic reactions. Understanding which plants can cause allergies can help people better control their symptoms and create a more free environment of allergies.
According to a recent study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, among the most common vegetable allergens are included:
| Allergen | Common plants |
|---|---|
| Grass pollen | Timothy grass, bermuda grass, regrass |
| Tree pollen | Oak, birch, arce |
| Weed pollen | Ambrosia, lamb rooms, Cerceta |
It is important to keep in mind that each person can have different reactions to the different vegetable allergens. In addition, the severity of allergic reactions can vary from minor symptoms, such as sneezing and itching, to more serious manifestations that can affect everyday activities and quality of life in general.
- Allergies: Understanding the Basics
- Types of Allergens
- Common Plants That Trigger Allergies
- Common Plant Allergen Triggers:
- How Pollen Allergies Affect the Body
- Effects of Pollen Allergies on the Body:
- Stay Allergy-Free: Tips for Managing Plant-Induced Allergies
- Preventing Plant Allergies in Your Home and Garden
- Alternative Plants for Allergy Sufferers
Allergies: Understanding the Basics
Allergic reactions may vary in gravity and symptoms, but are usually characterized by symptoms such as sneezing, itching, crying eyes, coughing, sibilant breathing or skin rashes. In some severe cases, allergies can cause anaphylaxis, a potentially deadly allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Allergens: allergens are the substances that trigger allergies. They can be found in various forms, such as plants pollen, domestic animals dandruff, dust mites, certain foods and insect poison. It is important to identify the specific allergen that causes an allergic reaction to effectively control symptoms.
Types of Allergens
1. Pollen: pollen is a common allergen, especially during certain stations when plants release their pollen in the air. This type of allergy is commonly known as a hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis.
2. Animal dandruff: Animal dandruff, which includes small skin, hair or feathers, can trigger allergies in susceptible people. Common pet allergens include cats, dogs, rodents and birds.
3. Dust mites: dust mites are microscopic creatures that prosper in warm and humid environments. Their droppings and decomposition bodies can trigger asthma or allergic reactions in sensitive people. Dust mites are usually found in bedding, upholstered furniture and carpets.
| Allergen | Sources |
|---|---|
| Pollen | Trees, herbs, weeds |
| Animal dandruff | Pets (cats, dogs, rodents, birds) |
| Dust mites | Bedding, upholstered furniture, carpets |
Common Plants That Trigger Allergies
Although there are numerous plants that can cause allergic reactions, some are better known for causing strong responses in susceptible people. It is important to identify these plants and take the necessary precautions to avoid exposure in order to effectively control allergy symptoms.
Common Plant Allergen Triggers:
- Pollen: Pollen is one of the most frequent triggers of plants induced allergies. Many different plants produce pollen that can be transported by the air and easily inhaled, causing allergic reactions. Among the most common allergens in plants are grasses, trees such as birch, oak and cedar, as well as weeds such as ambrosia and artemis.
- Mold spores: mold spores can cause allergic reactions and are especially frequent in humid environments. A variety of outdoor plants, including fungi and other molds, release spores in the air, which can be inhaled and trigger allergic responses. The most common mold spores allergens are Alternaria, Aspergillus, Penicillium and Cadosporium.
- Savia and Resin: Some plants produce sap or resin that contain allergenic compounds. Direct contact with these substances can cause irritation, itching and skin rashes. Some examples of plants known for causing allergic reactions through the sap or resin are poisonous ivy, poisonous oak and poisonous zumaque.
It is important for people who suffer from plant-induced allergies to know the specific plants and allergens that trigger their symptoms. By avoiding exposure to these allergens and seeking appropriate medical treatment, people can effectively manage their allergies and lead a more comfortable life.
How Pollen Allergies Affect the Body
Allergy symptoms can vary in severity and can include nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, coughing, and even asthma attacks in some cases. When pollen particles are inhaled, they can irritate the lining of the nose, triggering an immune response characterized by the release of chemicals such as histamine. These chemicals cause dilation of blood vessels and increased permeability, leading to the characteristic symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Effects of Pollen Allergies on the Body:
- Nasal symptoms: Some people may experience nasal congestion, runny nose, itching, and frequent sneezing. These symptoms are the body’s defense mechanism to expel the allergen.
- Eye symptoms: Itchy, red, and watery eyes are common symptoms of pollen allergies. This occurs when allergens come into contact with the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that lines the front of the eyes.
- Respiratory symptoms: People allergic to pollen may develop cough, wheezing and difficulty breathing, especially if they have underlying asthma. Allergens can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms.
In addition to these immediate symptoms, prolonged exposure to pollen can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. Chronic or uncontrolled allergies can cause fatigue, sleep disorders, decreased concentration and productivity. It is essential for people allergic to pollen to identify their triggers, take preventive measures and see a doctor to effectively control their symptoms.
| Plant | pollen season |
|---|---|
| Grass | From spring to summer |
| Trees (e. g. birch, oak, cedar) | Spring |
| Herbs (e. g. ragweed) | From summer to autumn |
| Flowers (e. g. daisies, chrysanthemums) | It varies |
Stay Allergy-Free: Tips for Managing Plant-Induced Allergies
Avoid areas with a lot of pollen: pollen is one of the main responsible for allergies caused by plants. It is essential to know the plants that trigger their allergies and avoid spending time in areas where they abound. For example, if you know that ambrosia pollen triggers its symptoms, try to stay away from the fields or gardens where ambrosia grows. Instead, opt for places with less exposure to pollen, such as interior botanical gardens or wel l-careful parks.
Choose little allergenic plants: not all plants produce allergenic pollen. If you choose low allergenic content for your garden or vital spaces, you can significantly reduce your exposure to allergens. Some examples of little allergenic plants are certain types of ferns, palm trees and orchids. Investigate and consult local horticulturists to identify plants that are less likely to cause allergies in their specific area.
Tip: People with serious plants may be useful to create a “allergies free zone” at home. To do this, keep the interior plants outside the rooms and frequently clean the surfaces to remove pollen particles that may have reached outside.
- Regularly clean the interior spaces: pollen can be deposited on several surfaces of your house, especially if you leave the windows open or introduce objects from abroad. To minimize exposure to allergens, aspire, remove dust and clean surfaces regularly. In addition, the use of high efficiency air particles (HEPA) filters in your home can help catch and eliminate air pollen particles, improving inner air quality.
- Watch pollen levels: Stay informed about current pollen levels in your area. Many weather applications and websites offer daily pollen forecasts. The days when the pollen count is high, consider the possibility of limiting your outdoor activities or taking the appropriate precautions, such as wearing sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes and pollen face.
| Plant s-induced allergy symptoms | Tips for controlling allergy |
|---|---|
| Sneezes, nasal secretion and eyebrow | Avoid areas with a lot of pollen |
| Cutaneous irritation and rashes | Choose plants with low allergen content |
| Worsening of asthma symptoms | Regularly clean interior spaces |
Remember that the allergies of each person are unique, so it is essential to identify the specific plants or allergens that affect them and take the appropriate measures to control their symptoms. Following these tips can help you stay free of allergies and enjoy nature without constantly fighting discomfort.
Preventing Plant Allergies in Your Home and Garden
Allergies caused by plants can be an important concern for people who enjoy spending time outdoors or have passion for gardening. The pollen released by various plants can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people, causing symptoms such as sneezing, eyes and respiratory discomfort. However, with adequate preventive precautions and measures, you can create an environment that minimizes the risk of allergies to plants in their home and garden.
1. Choose little allergenic plants: When you select plants for your home or garden, opt for varieties known for being little allergenic. These plants produce less pollen or have a pollen that is less likely to cause allergies. Some examples of little allergenic plants are begonias, geraniums and petunias. By incorporating this type of plants into their exterior and interior spaces, it can reduce the possibilities of triggering allergic reactions.
- Keep gardening tools clean: pollen can easily pass from one plant to another through gardening tools, such as pruning scissors, palettes or gloves. To avoid cross contamination and minimize exposure to allergens, be sure to clean the gardening tools well after each use. Use soap warm water and a brush to remove pollen or plants that may be attached to surfaces.
- Take protective clothing: When working in the garden, it is essential to protect yourself from direct contact with pollen. Wearing lon g-sleeved shirts, closed pants and shoes can help prevent pollen particles from entering the skin. In addition, wearing a wide winged hat and sunglasses can provide greater protection when protecting the face of the allergens transported by the air.
- Create an “allergies”: if you or any family member suffer from serious plants, consider the possibility of creating an area designated in your garden or at home where you can enjoy the outdoor time without risk ofExposure to allergens. This area can be achieved by planting little allergenic plants or opting for alternative landscape options such as paved areas, gravel or no n-allergenic soil covers. The creation of this space free of allergies allows to enjoy the beauty of nature while minimizing the risk of allergic reactions.
“When choosing little allergenic plants, keeping gardening tools clean, wearing protective clothing and creating an allergies free, can significantly reduce the risk of allergies to plants in their home and garden.”
Alternative Plants for Allergy Sufferers
1. Little allergenic plants
- An option for allergic is to choose plants that have little allergenic properties. These plants produce minimal amounts of pollen or other substances that usually cause allergic reactions.
- Some examples of little allergenic plants are the majority of the species of ferns, grapes, columbines and hibiscos.
- By selecting little allergenic plants, it is important to check its compatibility with the specific allergies of the individual, since each one’s sensibilities can vary.
2. Design of gardens suitable for allergic
In addition to choosing little allergenic plants, creating a suitable garden design for allergic can also help minimizing exposure to allergens.
- Planting a mixture of herbs, flowers and shrubs that are less likely to cause allergies can help create a more pleasant external environment.
- For example, incorporating plants without flowers into the garden, such as succulents, can reduce the amount of pollen in the air.
- In addition, space plants allows a better air circulation and decreases the concentration of allergens.
3. Interior plants without allergens
Allergics can continue enjoying the advantages of having plants inside by selecting varieties considered free of allergens.
- Some outstanding examples of interior plants without allergens are Boston’s ferns, the lilies of peace, spider plants and snake plants.
- These plants not only add a decorative touch to the interior spaces, but also help purify the air eliminating common allergens such as formaldehyde and benzene.
- Maintaining the inner atmosphere clean and dus t-free and mold also helps reduce allergy symptoms.
Although sometimes plants can exacerbate allergies, there are alternative plant options that can help minimize the discomfort experienced by allergic ones. The choice of little allergenic plants, the implementation of an apt design for allergic and the incorporation of allerge n-free interior plants are effective strategies to create an environment conducive to a healthier life for allergic people. Taking into account the choice of plants, allergic people can continue to enjoy the beauty of nature while minimizing the risk of triggering allergic reactions.
