Scindapsus decorus, or the peace lily, is a popular houseplant. It is valued for its white blooms and air-purifying ability. People respect that the plant beautifies homes and cleans the air. However, it causes some to have hypersensitivity. These allergies are serious, especially for those with weak airways or itchy skin. This article will explore the causes and cures of peace lily allergy. It will recommend, in good faith, ways to enjoy the flower safely.
Allergic reactions on exposure to the peace lily flowers are primarily a result of irritants emitted by the plant itself. Like most other plants you know, peace lilies do produce insect-repelling and other sorts of damaging protective compounds. A particular toxin is known to be calcium oxalate, which occurs within the stems and leaves of the peace lily. This chemical can cause inflammatory responses similar to those caused by allergies, making one develop signs of allergy after being in contact with this substance.
The peace lily, like most plants, is not free of allergies; however, it is not as severe as other household triggers. It can, though, trouble those who already have nasal allergies or asthma, or skin-related issues. The small dust thrown up by the growth may cause irritation in the eyes, skin, or lungs.
As it normally goes with other allergies, allergies to peace lilies also come with symptoms that are dependent on the mode of plant contact. Reactions following plant exposure broadly agree on viewing them as either symptoms affecting chest/bronchial systems (respiratory) or dermal (skin-related) systems. Here are the common signs to watch for:
Breathing problems are reported in those near peace lilies. This is especially true for those sensitive to airborne particles. Symptoms of peace lily allergy include respiratory issues, such as:
Inhaling particulate matter, especially from their plant, may cause these symptoms. It may also cause lymphatic obstruction in other overexposed workers.
Contact dermatitis, which is commonly the skin rash resulting from direct contact with the peace lily’s leaves, stems, or flowers, affects the skin. The effects of irritant contact dermatitis:
It is common for people to take care of the peace lilies and touch their face or eyes without washing their hands. This can cause some eye irritation. This could lead to:
These symptoms apply when disease processes occur. Irritating agents, like calcium oxalate crystals, must contact sensitive ocular tissues.
The good news is that the majority of peace lily allergy symptoms can be prevented or treated readily with some simple precautions. If you have, or plan to get, a peace lily for your home, follow these steps to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.
How to eliminate peace lily allergy manifestations is to limit the handling of the plant itself. Whenever you are handling this plant, such as repotting, pruning, or cleaning off the leaves, always have a pair of gloves on your hands. This will aid in the prevention of possible discomfort related to the plant’s calcium oxalate.
Moreover, always wash your hands after you have touched the plant so as to avoid any accidental rubbing of the eyes, face, or other sensitive places like the face.
In case you or anyone else in the house has sensitivity to airborne allergens or to the reactions caused by the peace lily allergen, it is better to place the plant in a room that is under low traffic in the house. Moving the plant away from the commonly used areas, like living rooms and bedrooms, will help reduce exposure to the irritants that will make one’s face inflamed.
Moreover, for those with respiratory complaints, placing the peace lily in an adequately ventilated area may also help reduce the levels of dust in the air.
The Association of Interior Plantscapers also makes an intriguing observation that they assume such plants as the peace lily, which is known to purify the air from certain harmful toxins, is associated with allergy. However, it is a reasonable fact that good quality of air in the indoor residence should always be preserved. Tuck away the curtains or use an air-cleaning device to freshen the room and remove any undesirable smell. This can help lessen the concentration of any potential irritants that may arise from the plant and keep the pollutants low in the indoor atmosphere.
When cutting the peace lily flowers, or pruning any other growth of the plant that has developed, it may release excessive irritating substances. Their cuts should be timed and minimal in order not to aggravate the allergy reactants. Any cut leaves or other parts of the plant should be put into a trash bag immediately, and all cut pieces of the plant should be swept up.
Should it happen that a person comes into contact with the pollen, or hay fever-type symptoms develop when one is in the vicinity of the peace lily, the symptoms should be managed swiftly. A few treatment options are as follows:
For respiratory symptoms: There are various types of anti-allergic medicines available, such as antihistamines, which act to relieve symptoms like sneezing or congested noses and less circulatory disturbances. Antihistamines provide symptom-relieving aid but are not curative. Nasal sprays can also help relieve nasal symptoms, whether active or chronic runny or blocked noses.
For skin irritation: Applying any soothing lotion or hydrocortisone cream that can numb the itchiness and cure mild contact dermatitis helps. If one has blisters or very sore rashes, seek medical attention from a doctor.
For eye irritation: Instillation of saline eye drops would help in washing away the particles and curing any redness or swelling in the eyes. Do not rub your eyes, as this will aggravate the irritation.
Of course, if there are more serious symptoms like breathing problems or if the symptoms continue for a while, prompt medical attention should be sought.
Peace lilies bring a number of advantages as houseplants, including enhancing the environmental air quality. This is, however, a very useful and appropriate plant that most should exercise caution in reaction to peace lily allergies. That’s why it is crucial to understand the symptoms and undertake the necessary measures so as to avoid the risk of health deterioration.
Depending on whether they’ve already had any peace lily allergy symptoms or even if they are only wishing to prevent them. Any allergic response to the plant has basic principles which lie in careful handling of the plant and its surroundings, its strategic placement, and hygiene. If you follow these guidelines, it is possible to lessen the risk of allergenic substances’ impacts while maintaining the beauty of the interiors.
The Peace Lily, with its elegant white blooms and lush green leaves, purifies the air and symbolizes nature’s calming beauty.
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