Ragweed season: what you need to know about this pesky allergen

By: Gabbi Di Marino - Content manager and fellow allergy sufferer

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August is finally upon us, and while the summer starts to wind down into fall slowly, we’ve got a new allergen to worry about: ragweed. If you’re like me, ragweed season can be a tricky time of year. It starts in August, peaks in September, and can last up until November in some parts of the U.S. (yikes). But fear not! I’m here to break down some important facts about this pesky allergen, so you can be ready to tackle the season head-on!

What is ragweed? 

Ragweed is a type of weed in the daisy family. There are over 17 different kinds of this plant, and it can grow everywhere from a field to cracks in the sidewalk, so watch out! 

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Where is ragweed? 

Unfortunately, ragweed is practically everywhere! It grows in 49 of the 50 states of the U.S. (Alaskans, count yourself lucky - you’re the only state in which this pesky plant doesn’t grow). 


How far can ragweed pollen travel? 

Pretty far. Ragweed plants create small grains of pollen that are super light, which means that a nice breeze can carry them for hundreds of miles. Ragweed pollen has been located in the ocean 400 miles from the coast and up to 2 miles into the air! 


How can I manage my symptoms during Ragweed season? 

For starters, if you spend a lot of time outdoors, you’ll want to take some cautionary steps to make sure you aren’t carrying the small, lightweight pollen with you throughout the day. So, taking shoes off outside, changing your outside clothes when you come indoors, and drawing yourself a nice shower before bed can help keep this annoying allergen from following you around! 

Another great tip is to monitor ragweed levels throughout the day and avoid whenever the levels are peaking. Usually, ragweed peaks during the middle of the day (around 3 P.M.), so if possible, try to head indoors and wait for the levels to drop! 

For housekeeping duties during Ragweed season, try vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum often to pick up any stray pollen that may be lurking in your rugs and curtains, and keep an air conditioner on well into the fall months! 

Should I avoid certain foods during Ragweed season? 

Yes! Although this may be a little-known fact, your immune system can mistake other similar plants and food for ragweed, so avoiding these will also help to curb your symptoms. Avoid the foods below as best as you can! 

  • Bananas

  • Chamomile

  • Cantaloupes

  • Cucumbers

  • Echinacea

  • Honeydew melons

  • Watermelon

  • Zucchini


Hopefully this article will help you to survive the season!

If you found this article helpful, check out our month-to-month guide on other allergens you should be looking out for throughout the year!



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