Flowers are often admired for their beauty and fragrance, but for some people, they can trigger allergic reactions due to their high pollen content. Pollen, a fine powder released by plants as part of their reproductive process, is one of the most common allergens. When inhaled, it can cause symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and even asthma. While not all flowers are equally problematic, certain species are notorious for producing large amounts of pollen, making them particularly troublesome for those with allergies. Below are five flowers with high pollen content that are known to cause allergic reactions.
Ragweed (Ambrosia)
Ragweed is perhaps the most infamous flower for triggering allergies, particularly during the late summer and fall. Each ragweed plant can produce billions of pollen grains, which are easily carried by the wind for miles. Because ragweed pollen is so lightweight, it can travel long distances and is hard to avoid, making it a major culprit in seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever.
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)
While sunflowers are adored for their bright yellow blooms and cheerful appearance, they can be a nightmare for allergy sufferers. Sunflowers produce large amounts of pollen, which can be easily dispersed by the wind. In addition to causing allergic reactions when inhaled, sunflower pollen can also trigger contact allergies, causing skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
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