Compositae dermatitis
The sesquiterpene lactones of elecampane (alantolactone), arnica, chamomile, feverfew, chrysanthemum, costus, laurel (costunolide), and the ox-eye and other daisies.
Compositae dermatitis: how soon does it show?
Days after the first sensitising contact; hours after the next.
How does it run?
An allergic eczema of the hands, face, and eyelids in gardeners, florists, and users of the herbal creams, worst in summer and spreading to the exposed skin like a light eruption; cross-reaction across the whole family, so that the elecampane-sensitised react to chamomile. The lactones are not phototoxic but the pattern mimics it.
What is done for it?
Avoidance; steroids; patch testing with the Compositae mix.
Historical and descriptive, not medical advice. In a poisoning, call a poison centre or emergency services.
Which substances in the database cause it?
Sources
- Paulsen, E. (2002). “Contact sensitization from Compositae-containing herbal remedies and cosmetics.” Contact Dermatitis 47. Verified against its record · doi:10.1034/j.1600-0536.2002.470401.x
- Hausen, B. M. (1996). “A 6-year experience with Compositae mix.” American Journal of Contact Dermatitis 7. Verified against its record · doi:10.1097/01206501-199606000-00005