Loofah gourd is an annual tropical vine popular in Africa and Asia. The large, cylindrical fruits of the young plant are edible. The mature fruits become hard and dry, and are filled with seeds. Loofah gourds and leaves have been used traditionally to treat a variety of conditions including diabetes, allergies and jaundice. The spongy tissues of the ripe, mature gourds have also been used to make loofah sponge. The sponges are used to make soles of sandals and bath, cosmetics and cleaning products. While some people may benefit from the plant, others are allergic to it.
Allergy Therapy
Nasal sprays containing loofah components may be as effective and well tolerated as cromolyn sodium in preventing and treating allergic rhinitis or nasal allergies, according to a study published in the June 1999 issue of the Swiss journal “Forschende Komplementärmedizin.” Marie Browning, author of the book “Natural Soapmaking,” also recommends adding loofah pieces to soaps to improve your circulation, especially if you have a sensitive skin. Loofah is commonly available as a loofah complex that contains some other herbs. The supplements are available as tablets and drops as well.
Loofah Gourd Allergies
Certain contaminated loofah sponges may also cause skin rash. This rash may be because of infection caused by bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeroginosa, often found in loofah sponges. It may also be caused by a hypersensitivity reaction from an overactive immune system that forms antibodies against the components of loofah gourd plant. The immune system releases chemicals known as histamine in response to these antibodies, which cause the symptoms of the allergic reaction.
Symptoms
Allergic reactions are characterized by redness or itching on the skin from leaking of the blood vessels into skin. Severe allergic reactions may also be accompanied by skin swelling, shortness of breath and hives.
Treatment
Seek immediate medical help if you experience breathing difficulties or if your rash becomes widespread; allergies can be life threatening. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams to treat mild conditions. You may also take antihistamine medications under the supervision of your doctor to treat loofah gourd allergies.
References
- NC State University: Commercial Luffa Sponge Gourd Production
- Forschende Komplementärmedizin; A Randomized Equivalence Trial Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of Luffa Comp.-Heel Nasal Spray with Cromolyn Sodium Spray in the Treatment of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis; M. Weiser et al.; June 1999
- Natural Soapmaking; Marie Browning.
- Allergy Matter: Hay Fever Learning Center
- American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology: Skin Allergy
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