Allergies to calendula are rare. Drugs.com states that allergic reactions have been reported, primarily contact sensitization and one case of anaphylaxis. Calendula is a flower that has been used for centuries for medical purposes. The supplement contains high amounts of flavonoids that help to reduce the amount of free radicals in the body. Calendula is commonly taken because of its anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial effects. Some people use it on wounds to help disinfect and promote healing. Statements made about calendula have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to calendula may occur in more than one way. You can have an internal allergic reaction if you take calendula in supplement form. Rashes are a common allergic reaction when calendula is applied to the skin and some people may develop sinus allergies from the pollen of the calendula. Calendula pollen is related to ragweed pollen and may cause common allergic rhinitis symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you have a known allergy to plants in the daisy or aster family, you may have an allergic reaction to calendula.
Pollen Allergy
A pollen allergy is an airborne allergic reaction that occurs when you inhale the pollen form the calendula plant. It is impossible to completely avoid pollen because it floats in the air and is unseen by the human eye. The best way to prevent an allergic reaction to the pollen of the flower is to keep your windows and doors shut during the spring time and to avoid putting these flowers in your house. Pollen allergies cause cold-like symptoms, such as runny nose, sinus congestion, sinus headaches, eye irritation and throat irritation. Taking a daily antihistamine may reduce your symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Skin Reactions
Allergic skin reactions can occur when you touch calendula. Common skin reactions include itching, inflammation and redness in the area of the skin that has come into direct contact with the plant. Allergic skin reactions can trigger eczema or hives to develop. These skin rashes are both itchy and can spread to any part of the body. Treat allergic skin conditions by cleansing the affected skin with soap and water and applying hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation.
General Reactions
General allergic reaction symptoms may include trouble breathing, nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramping, pain in the abdomen, skin rashes, facial swelling and a metallic taste in your mouth after ingesting the supplement. All your symptoms need to be evaluated by your physician.
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