Gone with the wind

The dandelion is also said to provide an important source of nectar for bees. In fact no less than 93 different kinds of insects feed on dandelion pollen and small birds on its seeds.

"While pollen grains and seeds are an important source of food for insects and birds, many people are allergic to them and often fall sick during the pollination season," says Dr Salwan Abd-Alhadi Abdul Redha, ENT specialist NMC Specialty Hospital, Dubai. "People who are likely to develop an allergy after being exposed to pollen are those with high levels of immunoglobulin type- E (proteins) in their blood.
"Changes in weather can worsen the allergic reaction to pollens and seeds," he adds.

"To begin with, the nose becomes hyperactive to any changes (in weather and temperature). An increase in the amount of pollen in the air adversely affects the body and this sensitivity exacerbates the allergic reaction.

"People who are sensitive should avoid or reduce exposure to pollen by keeping windows closed and avoiding going outdoors, especially on windy days. They can also apply a wet clean pollen mask over the nose and wash hair before going to bed to avoid getting pollen on the pillow.

They should try to avoid irritants – for instance one can go on holiday at the height of the pollinating season. More importantly they should meet an allergy specialist to prescribe medication accordingly."
Source: www.naturewatch.ca

– Ritu Raizada, Lifestyle Features Coordinator, Friday