Allergy to Hyacinths
The hyacinth is a bulb flower that blossoms in the spring. The bulb, sap and leaves of the hyacinth contain allergenic components. When these components are touched or ingested, they can cause an allergic reaction.
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Hyacinth Itch
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The hyacinth bulb, sap and leaves contains an oil that contains many toxic elements. When this oil comes in contact with the skin, it can cause a condition known as "hyacinth itch."
Symptoms
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According to SpookSpring.com, hyacinth itch can cause a rash, violent itching, inflammation and blisters on the skin. The blisters put the body at risk for further infection.
Ingestion
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Hyacinths are also poisonous to humans and cattle, as explained by Weather.com. When consumed, hyacinth bulbs will cause vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps.
Treatment
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An allergic reaction to a hyacinth bulb or flower should be treated immediately by washing the area thoroughly with warm water and mild soap. Severe allergic reactions should be referred to a physician for additional treatment.
Prevention
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To prevent an allergic reaction, individuals should wear thick gloves while handling a hyacinth bulb or flower. After handling, the hands should be washed thoroughly and dried with paper towels that can be disposed of.
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Related Searches
References
- Photo Credit hyacinth image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
Comments
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Just happend to me! Taking benedril
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Wow, I am an RN, and just ordered these and received them in the mail from a garden company today. I never heard of such an allergy, and was fine before I opened the box to see my bulbs. Once, I handled them, and read the instructions, I began to itch horribly and burn so badly, it felt like my skin was on fire, after only several minutes of coming in contact with them. I've never experienced anything like this. Somehow, I guess my hands came in contact with my neck, which is where the rash began to form and spread. The only thing I can relate this to, is if you've ever been bitten by fireants. I grew up in FL so know this feeling all too well. It felt like 10,000 fire ants bit me on the neck, and I itched and burned at the same time. My neck turned all red, and I didn't know what had happened, but the only thing done differently, was opening the box of bulbs, which lead me to this site. So, I agree with the below posting, that there should be warnings on the packages.
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Wow! I was just purchasing the bulbs, when my skin began to suddenly itch, get red, and develop hives. After immediately washing with soap and water, it resolved. I was never allergic to anything so quickly. I think the packages of bulbs should not have holes in them, and there should be a large warning on the front of the package to wear gloves when handling them, with allergy warnings.
