To which plant family, known for allergens like ragweed and daisies, does yarrow belong, increasing allergy risk?

Answer

Asteraceae (or Compositae)

The potential for allergic reactions to yarrow is heightened for certain individuals because of its botanical classification. Yarrow is a member of the Asteraceae family, which is also commonly referred to by its older classification, Compositae. This specific plant family is notorious for containing a substantial number of well-known environmental allergens. Familiar examples within this group include common irritants such as ragweed, daisies, and chrysanthemums. If a person has a pre-existing confirmed allergy to any plant within the Asteraceae lineage, they are at a substantially increased susceptibility to developing an allergic response when exposed to yarrow. This allergic manifestation can range from respiratory distress, such as sneezing or nasal congestion, to localized skin reactions like dermatitis, emphasizing the importance of checking one's history for sensitivities to these widely distributed flowers and weeds.

To which plant family, known for allergens like ragweed and daisies, does yarrow belong, increasing allergy risk?
side effectHerbYarrowadverse reaction