Lavender.
Lavender is a commonly used product in personal and household care items as well as for aromatherapy. It is increasing in popularity as a fragrance. Additionally, multiple recent publications attest to its antimicrobial activity. Whereas lavender has been associated with irritant dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, and photodermatitis, it is anticipated that with increasing exposure, more patients will experience these complications. Most cases of allergic contact dermatitis have been reported as being due to occupational exposures through massage and aromatherapy. One study of the Japanese population demonstrated an increased incidence of contact dermatitis from lavender (from 1.1% to 13.9% over 8 years). It is important that clinicians recognize lavender as a potential allergen.
Department of Dermatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, USA. pwu2@bidmc.harvard.edu
Peggy A
PA
Wu
William D
WD
James
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000485:Allergens / Q000009:adverse effects*; D019341:Aromatherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000209:etiology*; D009783:Dermatitis, Occupational / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007564:Japan; D027523:Lavandula / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008405:Massage / Q000009:adverse effects; D008875:Middle Aged; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010938:Plant Oils / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology; D028321:Plant Preparations / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000494:pharmacology
D000485:Allergens; D010938:Plant Oils; D028321:Plant Preparations