Juniper trees and bushes are in the Cupressaceae family of plants, which includes cypress and cedar trees. As it is closely related to Cedar, Juniper pollen season is included in "Cedar Fever", a common seasonal allergy to pollen from plants in the Cupressaceae family. Cedar fever doesn't actually cause a fever, but refers to the severe allergic reactions triggered by the high allergenicity of juniper pollen. Symptoms may resemble those of the flu, such as severe congestion, sinus pressure, and fatigue.

Juniper contains pectate lyase allergens and polcalcin proteins.

Berries from this plant are used to flavour gin. They can be eaten in small quantities without irritation, but they may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some people.

The trees release their pollen from November to March. As the pollen is small and light it travels easily in the wind over long distances.

An allergy to juniper pollen is strongly associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever).

A juniper pollen allergy is also linked to asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and atopic dermatitis.

Pectate lyase proteins are also found in ragweed, wormwood, cedar, sunflower and juniper pollens. Pectate lyase is also a food allergen in almonds and in penicillin.

Polcalcin proteins are found in pollens like alder, ragweed, birch, olive, lilac and some grasses.

Let me know if you found any of these interesting or useful. If you spot an article or research that you think is interesting you can message me or tag me on Facebook or Twitter - links at the bottom of the page.