An allergy to alfalfa and an allergy to pollen are two different conditions that are not related. Alfalfa is a flowering plant that produces pollen, but taking an alfalfa supplement will not affect you if you have a pollen allergy, according to MedlinePlus. If you're allergic to alfalfa, you will develop more food-related allergy symptoms, while a pollen allergy is related to hay fever, or allergic rhinitis. Discuss any symptoms or concerns you have while taking an alfalfa supplement.
Alfalfa Allergy
Alfalfa is a flowering plant that is used as an herbal supplement for bladder, kidney and prostate conditions. As with any herbal supplement, the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the use or quality of the herb. The herb is also used for asthma, an upset stomach and diabetes. If you're allergic to alfalfa, your immune system mistakes the substance as harmful when you ingest it. The body will release immunoglobulin E, or IgE, antibodies that will fight against the supplement. IgE antibodies are disease-fighting agents that protect the body from viruses and bacteria. Antibodies in the body cause mast cells to produce histamine, which leads to common food-allergy symptoms.
Pollen Allergy
A pollen allergy typically occurs during the spring months when plants are blooming and releasing pollen. Pollen become airborne and is inhaled in the air. A pollen allergy is a hypersensitivity of the immune system to the substance. The most common pollen allergies are related to trees, weeds and certain grasses. A pollen allergy will cause sneezing, watery eyes, post-nasal drip, asthma, puffy eyes, throat irritation and nasal congestion.
Treatment
Treatment for both conditions begins with a medial diagnosis. Once positively diagnosed, you should avoid interacting with either substance. Avoiding consuming alfalfa is not difficult, because it does not occur in many food products. Avoiding pollen is more complicated because it's airborne. MayoClinic.com recommends staying indoors during the spring and summer months to avoid exposure to pollen. Run your air conditioner, keep your windows and doors closed and run an air purifier to reduce the amount of pollen in your home. If you spend an extended period of time outdoors, change your clothing and take a shower to minimize exposure to any residue.
Consideration
If you are diagnosed with an alfalfa allergy, you are at risk for developing a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include lightheadedness, bluish skin color, shortness of breath, mental confusion, swelling in the face and a rapid but faint heart rate.
