Skip to content
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

Alder (Alnus Glutinosa)

Alder (Alnus glutinosa) is a tree whose pollen may trigger respiratory and immune reactions, especially in spring. It can also cause cross-reactivity with certain fruits and nuts. Avoid exposure for 8 weeks, support immune balance, and monitor symptom changes to reduce reactivity and feel better.

🌳 What is Alder (Alnus glutinosa)?
Alder, specifically Alnus glutinosa (also known as black alder or European alder), is a deciduous tree commonly found in wetlands, riverbanks, and damp woodlands across Europe and parts of North America. Its pollen, bark, and leaves can contribute to environmental sensitivities. While not a food source, it may appear on sensitivity reports due to environmental or cross-reactive immune responses.

🤔 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Alder (Alnus glutinosa)?
Your sensitivity to alder likely comes from exposure to its pollen or plant compounds, which may trigger immune or histamine reactions, especially in spring and early summer:

  • Airborne pollen – Commonly triggers hay fever-like symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, or sinus pressure.
  • Cross-reactivity with foods – Some individuals with alder sensitivity may also react to apples, cherries, celery, or hazelnuts due to pollen-food allergy syndrome (PFAS).
  • Immune system overactivation – The body may treat alder pollen as a threat, leading to inflammation, fatigue, or skin irritation.
  • Environmental burden – Combined with other trees or grasses, exposure to alder may increase your overall allergy or intolerance load.

🛠️ What Can I Do About It?

  • Avoid high-pollen areas for 8 weeks, especially during alder’s peak pollen season (late winter to early spring).
  • Keep windows closed during high pollen times and use HEPA air filters indoors.
  • Rinse off after outdoor activities – Shower and change clothes to reduce skin and respiratory exposure.
  • Track related food sensitivities – If you experience symptoms with certain fruits or nuts, you may be reacting due to cross-reactivity with alder pollen.
  • Monitor your symptoms over the 8-week avoidance period and reassess.

💊 Which Supplements Can Help with Alder Sensitivity?

💊 Supportive Options:

  • Quercetin – A natural antihistamine that calms allergic responses to pollen.
  • Vitamin C – Reduces histamine levels and supports immune balance.
  • NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) – Thins mucus and helps reduce respiratory irritation.
  • Butterbur – A plant-based antihistamine alternative for pollen sensitivities.
  • Probiotics – Help regulate immune responses and reduce allergic inflammation over time.

🌟 Why Might I Have an Intolerance to Alder but Not Other Trees or Plants?

  • Unique pollen proteins – Alder produces specific proteins that may mimic allergens found in certain foods, triggering reactions even if other tree pollens don’t.
  • Stronger seasonal effect – Alder pollinates early in the year, which may cause a more noticeable reaction when the immune system is under stress.
  • Cross-reactivity with foods – If you’re sensitive to birch or hazel, you’re more likely to react to alder due to shared allergenic structures.

🍽️ Common Cross-Reactive Foods (if sensitive):

  • Apples
  • Cherries
  • Pears
  • Hazelnuts
  • Carrots
  • Celery

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated):

  • Blueberries, grapes, or citrus fruits
  • Cooked versions of reactive foods (cooking often reduces pollen-like proteins)
  • Non-nut-based snacks if hazelnuts are reactive