Juniper berries are commonly used as a flavor in foods and beverages and have been used medicinally to treat bronchitis and arthritis. According to drugs.com, allergic reactions have been reported after ingesting or inhaling the supplement. Whenever you introduce a new substance into your body, you are at risk of triggering an allergic reaction. If you suspect that you're experiencing an allergic reaction after inhaling or consuming juniper berry, call your healthcare provider for further evaluation. An allergic reaction to juniper berry is uncommon.
Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction occurs when your immune system malfunctions in response to juniper berries. The immune system protects the body from illness, disease and infection by fighting off harmful substances, such as viruses, bacteria and toxins. Even though juniper berries are safe for human consumption, in some people the immune system may react as if they were a dangerous substance and begin to attack them. Your immune system creates immunoglobulin E, or IgE, antibodies to fight off the proteins in the berry. This triggers the production of a cascade of various compounds in the body, leading to allergy symptoms.
Symptoms
Drugs.com states that the most common symptoms related to an allergic reaction to juniper berries include respiratory symptoms and skin reactions. You may develop a runny nose, sneezing, postnasal drip, congestion, wheezing, chest pain, difficulty breathing and shortness of breath. The skin can become irritated and a rash may develop, such as hives or eczema, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Your skin may also become irritated after contact with juniper berries, a condition known as allergic contact dermatitis.
Pollen Consideration
You may have an allergy to inhaled juniper berry pollen, according to Drugs.com. Pollen allergies are common in the United States and can cause coldlike symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, throat irritation, redness in the eyes, congestion and sneezing.
Treatment
The most effective treatment for an allergy to juniper berries is to avoid consuming the berries, any direct contact with the skin or inhaling juniper berry pollen. Read the ingredients on all foods before consuming them. If live in an area where juniper berries are present, keep your windows and doors shut during the springtime to avoid pollen exposure.
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