Which indoor plants to avoid if you suffer from hay fever
BY Max Kirsten
17th Apr 2024 Wellbeing
3 min read
Max Kirsten, Sleep Expert for Panda London, advises on the indoor plants to avoid if you have hay fever and why it's so important to remove them from your home
As
a sleep expert, I understand the importance of creating a conducive environment
for quality sleep, especially for individuals suffering from seasonal hay
fever. When it comes to indoor plants, there are certain varieties that can
exacerbate hay fever symptoms due to their pollen production and allergenic
properties.
The
worst indoor plants for individuals with seasonal hay fever include:
Ragweed (Ambrosia)
This is a notorious culprit for triggering
allergies, particularly during the late summer and early autumn months when its
pollen counts are at their peak. For allergy sufferers, exposure to ragweed
pollen can wreak havoc on sleep patterns. Ragweed pollen is incredibly light
and can travel long distances through the air, infiltrating indoor spaces even
with closed windows.
"A notorious culprit for triggering allergies during late summer when its pollen counts are at their peak"
When inhaled, ragweed pollen can irritate the nasal
passages and throat, leading to congestion, sneezing, and itching. These
symptoms can make it difficult for individuals to breathe properly, leading to
disrupted sleep patterns characterised by frequent awakenings and overall poor
sleep quality. Furthermore, ragweed pollen can exacerbate conditions like
asthma, further complicating sleep for those affected.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
A popular ornamental plant known for
its ability to climb and cover structures, but it can pose problems for allergy
sufferers, particularly when grown indoors. English Ivy produces allergenic
proteins that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
When
kept indoors, English Ivy can accumulate dust and mould on its leaves,
exacerbating allergic symptoms. For allergy sufferers, exposure to English Ivy
can lead to nasal congestion, sneezing and itchy eyes, all of which can
interfere with sleep. Additionally, the presence of mould spores on the plant
can worsen respiratory symptoms and contribute to sleep disturbances, as
individuals may experience difficulty breathing comfortably during the night.
Ficus (Ficus benjamina)
Commonly known as the weeping fig, it's a
popular indoor plant prized for its lush foliage and air-purifying properties.
However, for individuals with allergies, the presence of Ficus plants in the
home can be problematic, especially when it comes to sleep. Ficus plants
produce latex sap that contains allergenic proteins capable of triggering
allergic reactions in susceptible people.
"Ficus plants produce latex sap that contains allergenic proteins, often triggering allergic reactions"
Exposure to Ficus sap can lead
to symptoms such as skin irritation, nasal congestion, and respiratory issues,
all of which can interfere with sleep quality. Furthermore, Ficus plants are
known to attract dust and mites, which can further exacerbate allergic symptoms
and disrupt sleep patterns. For allergy sufferers, minimising exposure to Ficus
plants indoors may be necessary to ensure a restful night's sleep.
Why you need to remove these indoor plants from your home
Hay fever symptoms can be exacerbated by certain indoor plants in the bedroom. Credit: Andrea Piacquadio
Removing high-pollen plants from the
bedroom during hay fever season is crucial for individuals suffering from
allergies for several reasons:
Minimise exposure: The bedroom is where people spend a
significant amount of time, especially during sleep. Removing high-pollen
plants reduces the exposure to allergens, minimising the risk of allergic
reactions during the night and promoting better sleep quality.
"By eliminating sources of pollen in the bedroom, individuals can enjoy a more restorative sleep"
Reduce symptoms: Hay fever symptoms such as sneezing,
congestion, and itchy eyes can be particularly bothersome during sleep,
disrupting restful sleep patterns. By eliminating sources of pollen in the
bedroom, individuals can experience fewer symptoms and enjoy a more restorative
sleep.
Enhance air quality: While plants contribute to air
purification, certain varieties can also release allergens such as pollen into
the air. Removing high-pollen plants from the bedroom helps maintain better
indoor air quality, reducing the potential for allergic reactions and
respiratory discomfort during sleep.
Create a safe haven: The bedroom should ideally serve as a
sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Removing allergenic plants creates a
safe haven free from potential triggers, allowing individuals with hay fever to
unwind and enjoy a peaceful sleep environment without the worry of exacerbating
their allergy symptoms.
Additional tips to keep your home free from pollen and reduce hay fever symptoms
● Close
windows and doors: Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen seasons to
prevent pollen from entering your home.
● Use
allergen-proof bedding: Encase mattresses, pillows, and bedding in
allergen-proof covers to minimise exposure to pollen while sleeping.
● Clean
regularly: Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery frequently using a vacuum
cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to trap pollen and other allergens.
● Limit
outdoor exposure: When spending time outdoors during high pollen seasons, wear
a pollen mask and shower and change clothes upon returning home to prevent
bringing pollen indoors.
Banner: Ficus is one of the indoor house plants to avoid if you suffer from hay fever. Credit: Feey
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