Russian allergist warns common bouquet flowers can trigger severe reactions

A Russian allergy and immunology specialist has warned that widely sold bouquet flowers can pose serious health risks for people with pollen allergies, particularly during the spring season. Dr. Elena Zenovieva told the Podmoskovye Segodnya outlet that lilies, daisies and chrysanthemums, which are common in flower shops, can be as hazardous as wild grasses for sensitive individuals. She said the main allergen is not the flower itself but the pollen it carries, which is light and easily dispersed through the air into the respiratory tract. According to the immunologist, exposure can cause runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing and, in some cases, shortness of breath. She added that cut flowers continue to release volatile aromatic compounds, and the concentration of these substances can build up in enclosed spaces. Zenovieva also warned that mold can develop in vase water that is not changed regularly, and that the resulting mold spores are themselves a strong allergen. She advised allergy sufferers to avoid lilies, daisies, chrysanthemums, ornamental sunflowers and dried flowers.