Can dried flowers cause allergies?
Say goodbye to your spring allergies thanks to dried flowers
With spring in the air, it is the perfect time to take a moment to appreciate the smell of the flowers. However, this might not be feasible if you are someone who suffers from pollen allergies or hay fever. Millions of people around the world are afflicted with springtime allergies, and whilst it is nice to know it is a common problem, it can be disheartening to turn down fresh flower gifts, or have to go without a beautiful bouquet in your home.
Luckily for you, we have the perfect solution for you to enjoy the beauty and colours of flowers in the spring without having to be constantly carrying tissues with you everywhere you go!
In this blog we have outlined the cause of your springtime allergies, and how opting for dried flowers would be the perfect alternative in order to avoid setting off your allergy symptoms. Let’s jump in!
Why do hay fever and allergies happen?
Allergic reactions such as hay fever and pollen allergies occur when your body reacts to substances known as allergens. Common allergens include pollen, dust, pet dander, and certain grasses, but other substances like tree blossoms can also trigger allergies.
When you inhale an allergen, your immune system recognises it as an intruder, and produces IgE (Immunoglobulin E) antibodies to help combat it. This response also triggers symptoms such as watery eyes, itchy skin, congestion, and sneezing. As soon as your body becomes sensitised with a particular allergen, it will react every single time you come into contact with it. This is known as immediate hypersensitivity, and will occur nearly immediately after you have been exposed to the allergen.
Flowers in particular are a known cause of pollen allergies, as they themselves contain pollen. This is one of the most common allergens in the world, and can trigger numerous allergic reactions in people who suffer from these allergies. Over-the-counter medication and homeopathic remedies can alleviate these symptoms, but removing the allergens themselves is one of the most effective ways to prevent allergies.
This is why people with hay fever or pollen allergies tend to avoid keeping flowering plants in their homes. Different allergens within the flower can cause sufferers to have allergic reactions, especially if they suffer from hay fever or asthma. If you have flower allergies it would be best to avoid flowers such as sunflowers, chrysanthemums, daisies, and baby’s breath. Or, as an even better alternative, you could always choose to keep dried flowers instead.
Why don’t dried flowers trigger hay fever and allergies?
The main reason why dried flowers make an excellent option for people with pollen allergies, is simply because they no longer contain pollen. During the drying process, the flowers lose their pollen and instead become preserved versions of their fresh selves. Afterwards, they can be left in their natural colour, or be dyed to complement various colour schemes. This allows people with allergies to enjoy their favourite flowers and colours without irritating their sinuses.
Our favourite spring flower arrangements
As we have previously mentioned, dried flower bouquets are the perfect way to bring a splash of colour to your home or to the home of your loved ones, without setting off any pollen allergies. At The Last Bunch, we have a variety of beautiful dried floral arrangements that are perfect for the spring. Some of our favourites include:
