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Cedar & Juniper Allergies

The mountain cedar tree, Juniperus ashei, is one of the major allergy-producing trees in the United States. Another name for the mountain cedar is the juniper tree, because of the family that it originates from. Cedar trees are one of the top causes of allergies in regions where they are prevalent, such as in Texas and New Mexico. Always consult with a doctor or other health professional to identify allergy prevention-and-control solutions.

  1. Causes

    • Pollen is the main cause of cedar allergies, but smelling and touching cedar bark can also cause allergic reactions. For some people, being within just a few feet of a cedar tree is enough to clog the nose and make the eyes water and itch.

    Symptoms

    • Cedar allergy symptoms are generally mild, but for some people they can be severe enough to interfere with day-to-day activities. Cedar allergies generally consist of runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes and frequent sneezing. An itchy throat or ears may also be signs of a cedar allergy. In severe cases, contact with cedar wood may cause hives or a raised rash of some kind.

    Time Frame

    • Most cedar allergy symptoms are at their worst between December and February, when the trees are producing the highest amount of pollen. Some varieties of cedar trees also pollinate between August and October, meaning people with severe cedar allergies may be impaired for six months of the year.

    Allergy Zones

    • Cedar trees grow in a relatively small geographic area, primarily in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 6 to 9. Mountain cedar, which loves zone 6, is the primary culprit of cedar allergies for most people. Mountain cedar is one of the most prevalent trees in Texas and the most dominant in the southern and western parts of the state. If you are susceptible to cedar allergies, it is best to stay away from these regions.

    Prevention/Solution

    • To protect from cedar allergies, keep doors and windows closed during pollination periods. Installing a HEPA filter will help collect cedar pollen, and vacuuming and dusting frequently will also help keep cedar allergies under control. If you have a cedar tree in your yard, consider removing it. Some cities, such as Albuquerque, New Mexico, have banned the planting of cedar trees to combat allergies.

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