Gardening is a fun way to enjoy the beauty and bounty of nature. However, when you have asthma or allergies, it’s important to make sure a green thumb doesn’t lead to wheezy breathing. The tips below can help you keep garden-related allergies and asthma at bay.
Your choice of which plants to grow, and avoid, can make a big difference. It all comes down to pollen. Some plants, especially those with colorful flowers, make heavy pollen that’s carried by insects. This type of pollen usually isn’t a problem.
The Problem with Pollen
Other plants, especially grasses and trees, make light, dry pollen that’s spread by the wind. People can breathe in this type of pollen. And if they have pollen allergies, the result can be sneezing, itchy eyes and a stuffy or runny nose. Plus, those with asthma sometimes find that pollen allergies trigger their asthma symptoms.
A study in Primary Care Respiratory Journal looked at asthma attacks treated by primary care doctors. Such attacks were linked to high levels of grass pollen.
Sow What?
If you have pollen allergies, talk with your doctor or the Pharmacist at your local good Neighbor Pharmacy when planning your garden. An allergist can help you determine which plants are problems for you. That way, you can be sure to avoid them.
Luckily, many garden favorites are low-risk choices. These plants add color or interest to your garden, and they usually won’t aggravate allergies. Safe plants include:
Cactus, Daisy, Geranium, Gladiola, Hisbiscus, Iris, Irish moss, Lily, Magnolia, Marigold, Pansy, Petunia, Roses, Snapdragon, Sunflower, Tulip, Violet
Plants to Avoid
Flowers and shrubs are the main attrac¬tions in an ornamental garden. A few varieties produce high levels of pollen, however. To head off allergy problems, it's best to avoid these plants:
Amaranthus, Juniper, Coneflower, Peony, Crocus, Poppy, Elderberry, Privet
Trees add shade to a garden, but some are known to cause allergies. These are common offenders:
Catalpa, Cedar, Elm, Hickory, Oak, Olive, Pecan, Pine, Sycamore, Walnut
Working in Your Garden
Wear googles while gardening and keep your hands away from your eyes and nose. Moisten the soil to reduce the amount of airbourne dust and mold and keep your garden weed-free, since some weeds are big pollen producers.
When you’re finished, leave your gardening clothes outside your bedroom to avoid carrying pollen in with you. Brush off your shoes, and wash your goggles or glasses, face and hands.
Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection, April 2013
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