Cedar Pollen Facts

Cedar trees, its Latin name being Cedrus, is a type of coniferous tree. Cedar trees are a type of pine tree, in the plant family of Pinaceae. The tree is in the same family as, and a close relative of, the fir trees, and they grow cones. Pollen from cedars comes from these cones.

When Cedar Pollen Occurs

For cedar trees, the cones need at least a year to grow. The cones begin to grow in late summer months, and then pollen is produced in the fall. After pollination, seeds take a year to mature.

Cedar Pollen Allergy Symptoms

Cedar pollen needs to come into contact with mucous membranes to have any effect on the body. Contact with the nose and mouth may lead to a scratchy throat, watery eyes and runny nose.

Myths About Cedar Pollen

It was once believed that cedar pollen was toxic. This is not the case; although one may be allergic to cedar pollen, the pollen is an allergen, not a toxin, and is rarely life threatening.

Remedies for Pollen Allergens

Regular allergy medicine, either provided over the counter or under a prescription of a physician, may help alleviate allergy symptoms that may come from cedar pollen. Ask a doctor if you believe you are severely allergic to cedar pollen.

Avoid Cedar Pollen

To avoid getting too much cedar pollen into your face, where it may cause allergic reactions, you may want to avoid being exposed to the pollen. Keep windows closed, especially in the morning, when cedars are generally pollinating most heavily.

References

• Pollen Allergies

Resources

• Facts About Cedar Trees

Photo Credit

Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Gordana Adamovic-Mladenovic