The globe arborvitae is an evergreen shrub with a low round shape, also called white cedar or Thuja occidentalis. Widely planted in home landscapes for its neat growth habit, variegated foliage and high tolerance to insects or disease, the globe arborvitae is commonly used as a foundation plant or accent. If you have an allergy to globe arborvitae, you are likely to come into contact with this plant in many of your daily activities because its use is so widespread.
Allergies and the Immune System
Your body defends itself by using the immune system. In the case of an allergy, the immune system identifies pollen or other substances in a plant as a foreign substance called an allergen. Your immune system immediately goes into overdrive, producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E, or IgE. The IgEs cause body cells to release chemicals called histamines that result in symptoms in the nose, lungs, throat, sinuses, ears, lining of the stomach or on the skin.
Allergy Symptoms Vary
Allergy symptoms are varied, depending on how your immune system responds to an allergen such as globe arborvitae. If the allergen is pollen, you might develop sneezing and a runny nose. You could react by having an asthma attack, with wheezing or shortness of breath. An allergen from the arborvitae foliage could result in a skin rash. If you touch the needles and then rub your eye, you could develop red, itching, watery eyes.
Hives and Histamine
Another symptom of allergy is hives -- red, itchy skin bumps that can occur singly or in clumps and can vary in size. If you brush against or handle a globe arborvitae plant, you may develop hives in the areas where your skin and the plant foliage came into direct contact. Hives are a response to histamine secretion, which occurs when your body produces IgE. Many over-the-counter and prescription remedies, called antihistamines, target histamine secretion to help reduce your body’s response to this chemical.
Anaphylaxis
A severe allergy to globe arborvitae can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include tingling in the mouth, a sudden feeling of warmth, flushing and facial swelling. You might also feel as though your throat is tight or develop anxiety, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. If the anaphylaxis is severe, your blood pressure can drop precipitously, leading to fainting and shock. Anaphylaxis can be fatal without immediate treatment.
Considerations and Warnings
Many plants and other substances can cause allergic reactions and it can be hard to determine the source of your reactions. Even if you don’t have an actual allergy, globe arborvitae foliage can cause a contact dermatitis or skin irritation. If you think you have an allergy to globe arborvitae, take careful note of your symptoms and consult a health-care worker. If you or anyone else have signs of anaphylaxis such as facial swelling or suddenly getting short of breath, call 911.
