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A healthy houseplant can bring vibrant color and fresh fragrance to any room. But some indoor greenery collects dust or releases pollen, both of which can trigger symptoms in allergy sufferers. Prevent sniffling and sneezing by avoiding these worst offenders the next time you head out to the nursery.
1. Chamomile.
Not only do chamomile’s white, daisy-like flowers make it a cheerful addition to an indoor setting, but the plant is also a popular herb that’s used to make a soothing tea. Allergy sufferers, however, may want to stick with another sedative brew instead, because chamomile, which is related to the common allergen ragweed, can trigger reactions in allergy sufferers.
2. Chrysanthemum.
Chrysanthemum offers colorful blooms and medicinal benefits—and a range of unpleasant potential side effects. This traditional fall flower can trigger skin irritation and allergy symptoms in sensitive people. Those who are allergic to pollen should enjoy their chrysanthemums outdoors, where the pollen can’t infiltrate a confined indoor space.
3. Hyacinth.
Hyacinth is one of the many beautiful spring bulbs that can be forced to flower indoors while the weather outside is still gloomy and cold. The plant has low levels of pollen, but its strong fragrance can irritate allergy sufferers. In addition, hyacinth bulbs can cause itching and inflammation when handled. If you decide to force hyacinths this spring, wear gloves while touching the bulbs to avoid a skin reaction.
4. Flowering Maple.
The flowering maple has no botanical relationship to the towering maple tree in your yard. Instead, it owes its moniker to its characteristically maple-shaped leaves. Flowering maple boasts beautiful bell-shaped blooms in the summer, but don’t let this plant’s innocent appearance fool you. Placed indoors, it can trigger minor skin irritation and respiratory allergy symptoms.
5. African Violet.
The foliage of the African violet has a fuzzy texture that gives wonderful depth against the vibrant coloring of its purple blooms. But those fuzzy leaves are top-notch dust catchers. So, if you’re sensitive to dust, steer clear of African violets—or, at the very least, give the leaves a regular wipe down.
