Though most people consider dandelion as an annoying weed, it is filled with lots of essential vitamins and minerals that can be used to relieve ailments. However, this herb can trigger allergic reaction in hypersensitive people.
Dandelion allergy is directly linked to ragweed allergy. Through wind pollen travel miles to other states in America, according to experts 10 to 20 percent of Americans are affected by this allergy.
Exceptional nutrients like vitamin C, B, fiber, potassium, iron, calcium and zinc are packed in this herb. Ailments like digestion problem, kidney issues, liver problem, diabetes, inflammation and cholesterol can be relieved by dandelion herb. However, there is no scientific evidence to back this claims.
Dandelion Allergy
Allergy is the response of your immune system to proteins or foreign substances that trigger various symptoms. Foreign substances that irritate may differ from person to person.
To combat these external substances immune system produces IgE antibodies, which detects the substance and signal to release histamines. Chemical reaction between histamine and external substances leads to allergic reactions.
This foreign substance can be anything; it can be proteins, dust particles or pollen. In this case, pollen travel miles through wind and reach hypersensitive people.
Dandelion allergy symptoms range from mild to severe signs. As soon as you notice any of the below mentioned symptoms, consult allergist and follow prescribed medication.
- Hay fever
- Stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Eye irritation
- Sore throat
- Itching
- Red eyes
- Skin rashes
- Asthma
- Wheezing
- Headaches
- Sinusitis
According to Asthma and Allergy Foundation about 75 percent of Americans with pollen allergies are triggered by ragweed herbs.
Diagnosis and Prevention
As mentioned consult allergist and he’ll conduct skin prick test to determine the allergen. Various substances can be exposed to your skin to confirm the allergen. When the allergen is confirmed, medication is prescribed.
Apart from taking medicines, you must stay away from the allergen and other related allergy causing foods. You must stay away from flowers and avoid pollen particular seasons.
Anti-histamines can relieve from mild dandelion allergy symptoms. Nasal sprays and eye drops can be prescribed by allergist to relieve allergy.
Allergic reaction may be triggered when you contact, ingest or inhale the dandelion or other ragweed related herb. So it’s recommended to patch test or discuss with your doctor before going with any herbal remedy.