Yes you can be allergic to lavender. Lavender allergy is a condition that may cause people to sneeze, have a runny nose, and itchy eyes. These symptoms usually occur when someone comes into contact with lavender oil, which is commonly used in soaps, lotions, and cosmetics.
Lavender allergy can also cause asthma-like symptoms such as wheezing and chest tightness. In some cases, lavender allergy can lead to anaphylaxis—a potentially life-threatening condition that causes swelling of the lips, throat, and tongue.
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Can I be allergic to lavender?
If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to be allergic to lavender, the answer is yes. While most people don’t have a problem with this fragrant herb, some people do experience allergic reactions. Ingestion of a small amount of lavender oil is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction, but if you are allergic to it, it will cause symptoms similar to any other type of allergy.
If you’re allergic to lavender and you use the plant in your home, wear loose-fitting clothes and wash your hands after touching it. If you need to spray parts of your body with lavender oil, use rubber gloves instead of cotton gloves because they won’t stick as much as cotton ones do.
Lavender Allergy Symptoms
If you’re allergic to lavender, you might experience the following symptoms:
- Itchy skin
- Rashes on the skin
- Hives on the skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Other symptoms of a lavender allergy include:
- Eye irritation.
- Dry mouth.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Abdominal pain and cramping.
Anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur quickly and without warning. This can lead to shock, collapse or loss of consciousness in severe cases. Some people have an allergic reaction when they first come into contact with lavender. Others develop an allergy after inhaling lavender products or after being exposed to them for a long time. In some cases, people develop an allergic reaction when they inhale or rub lavender oil on their skin or hair.
Lavender product and foods to avoid
If you’re allergic to lavender, it’s important to be aware of the products and foods that contain this essential oil. While there is no definitive list, here are a few things to avoid:
- Products containing lavender oil (including body wash, shampoo, conditioner, etc.)
- Foods that are cooked with lavender (e.g. lamb dishes)
- Items made with lavender (such as soaps, candles)
When using lavender oil, make sure you’re using a product that’s certified organic and free of added chemicals like perfume or colorants. Some products that claim to be aromatherapy may contain lavender oil, but they also can contain other ingredients that could be irritating to your skin.
If you have sensitive skin or allergies, try a lavender-free body wash or lotion instead of a traditional soap bar or lotion bar. Use a mild soap for shaving if necessary — no gel or cream lathers should be necessary because these products tend to dry out your skin as well.
Lavender Allergy Treatment
If you’re allergic to lavender, there are a few things you should know.
- The scent of lavender is very strong and can be irritating to people with allergies.
- It’s important to avoid exposure to the flower or its oil when possible.
- If you do have an allergy to lavender, it’s best to speak with your doctor about treatment options.
There may be some medications that can help relieve your symptoms. And finally, always keep an Epi-pen on hand in case of an emergency!
