Contact sensitization by alternative topical medicaments containing plant extracts

The influence of Calendulae officinalis flos extracts on cell cultures, and the chromatographic analysis of extracts

“…C. officinalis flos is a safe drug applied in skin inflammation, regardless of the fact whether the inflammation is caused by infection or laceration [1,2]. The C. officinalis flos has a healing effect on external bleeding, cuts and bruises as well as strained muscles.…”

Contact dermatitis to botanical extracts

“…In the United States, cosmetic companies are required to list the ingredients of their products to aid individuals in avoiding any particular substances that may be harmful. 1 The new emphasis on "herbal and plant" products has attracted even the most skeptical consumer because these terms seem to have the connotation of having beneficial effects without the risk of adverse side effects. Despite this great attraction to and belief in natural ingredients, cosmetics must be regarded as a potential source of allergens.…”

“…1 There also are an increasing number of individuals who are ingesting and applying plant substances to their skin. Much of this increase in use can be attributed to popular (nutritional) literature or by word of mouth.…”

An Evidence-Based Systematic Review of Echinacea (E. angustifolia DC, E. pallida, E. purpurea) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration

“…2 To determine the prevalence of echinacea sensitivity in the population at large, 100 atopic patients who had never taken echinacea were tested with skin prick tests, and a positive response was elicited in 20%, with negative controls. 28 Injections: Five cases of severe reactions following injection of Echinacin® have been reported, characterized by angioedema, hypotension, anaphylactic shock, and rash; a 63-year-old patient developed bilateral hand swelling, erythema, and pruritis after oral ingestion of Esberitox®. 28 Injections: Five cases of severe reactions following injection of Echinacin® have been reported, characterized by angioedema, hypotension, anaphylactic shock, and rash; a 63-year-old patient developed bilateral hand swelling, erythema, and pruritis after oral ingestion of Esberitox®.…”