Mugwort Allergy

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a common weed in Missouri, including the St. Louis area. It belongs to the ragweed family and releases lightweight pollen that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The plant grows two to four feet tall, with green, deeply lobed leaves that have a silvery underside. It often grows along roadsides, trails, vacant lots, and in unmaintained gardens. For those who are allergic, inhaling mugwort pollen can cause seasonal symptoms during its bloom period.

Mugwort Allergy Symptoms

Mugwort allergy symptoms are similar to hay fever, including sneezing, runny or congested nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy throat or ears, and postnasal drip. Some individuals experience fatigue from prolonged symptoms. In people with asthma, mugwort pollen can also trigger coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. If these symptoms are more noticeable in late summer or early fall, mugwort may be a contributing factor.

Mugwort Allergy Season in St. Louis

In St. Louis, mugwort typically blooms from mid-July through September, with mugwort pollen counts peaking in late summer. Levels are highest in the morning and on hot, dry, windy days. Rain can temporarily lower mugwort pollen counts, but they often rise again quickly. Late August and September can be particularly bothersome because mugwort allergy season overlaps with ragweed season.

in St. Louis, Missouri

Mugwort Oral Allergy Syndrome

Mugwort Allergy Foods to Avoid

Common foods that may cause oral allergy syndrome in people allergic to mugwort include celery, carrots, parsley, coriander (cilantro), peppers, certain spices such as paprika, anise, and fennel, and chamomile tea. Cooking these foods often reduces mugwort allergy symptoms, though tolerance can vary between individuals.

in St. Louis, Missouri

Mugwort Allergy Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a review of your mugwort allergy symptoms and seasonal patterns. Dr. Cajigal may recommend skin prick testing, where a drop of mugwort extract is placed on the skin and the surface is lightly pricked. A small, itchy bump within 15 to 20 minutes indicates a likely allergy. Specific IgE blood testing can also measure antibodies to mugwort pollen. If you take antihistamines, Dr. Cajigal may ask you to stop them for several days before testing to ensure accurate results.

Mugwort Allergy Treatment

Mugwort allergy treatment options include avoiding mugwort pollen exposure by keeping windows closed during high-pollen days, using air purifiers, showering and changing clothes after being outdoors, and wearing sunglasses outside. Medications such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, and decongestants can help relieve symptoms. Allergy immunotherapy, either through shots or tablets, can gradually reduce sensitivity to mugwort pollen and provide long-term relief. For individuals with asthma, adjusting inhaler use during peak pollen season may be recommended.

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