I love chamomile tea for its calming properties, but I also suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by ragweed. I recently heard something about chamomile being related to ragweed, which piqued my curiosity. Could this be why my allergies sometimes flare up after a cup of chamomile tea? Are there others who’ve experienced this?
Yes, chamomile is linked to ragweed. They are both part of the Asteraceae family, also known as the daisy family [1]. This means they share some similar characteristics, including their appearance.
People who have ragweed allergies may also be allergic to chamomile. This is because their immune system mistakenly identifies the proteins in chamomile as harmful, triggering an allergic reaction [2]. Symptoms of a chamomile allergy can include:
- Skin rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Trouble breathing
If you have ragweed allergies and are considering using chamomile, it’s important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if chamomile is safe for you.
