Pollen:

• Some herbs are closely related to plants that produce pollen. People with pollen allergies, such as hay fever, may experience a reaction when they come in contact with certain herbs. For example, mugwort and ambrosia are notorious allergens for people with pollen allergies.

Plant proteins:

• Herbs may contain plant proteins that can cause allergic reactions in people with sensitivity to those specific proteins. For example, some people may be allergic to the protein in cilantro or parsley.

Essential oils:

• Essential oils found in some herbs, such as lemon balm or mint, can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin.

Cross-reactivity:

• Some herbs can cause cross-reactivity in people with allergies to certain foods. For example, people with an allergy to ambrosia may experience a reaction when eating celery, carrots, parsley or fennel, which share the same allergens.

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It is important to note that allergies can vary individually, and not all people will react the same way to the same spices. If you suspect you are allergic to certain herbs, it is advisable to have an allergy test performed by an allergist or health care provider with expertise in allergies. They can help you identify specific allergens and advise on the proper steps you can take to avoid allergic reactions.