'Tis the Season for Christmas Tree Allergies

The smell of a fresh cut Christmas tree billowing through a home reminds you that Christmas is right around the corner. Sometimes, however, the same Christmas tree makes you anything but festive. In fact, it can trigger increased allergies and asthma.

What is a Christmas tree allergy?

For years people suspected the holiday triggered allergy was to the fresh pine scent of Christmas trees. In the last few years, however, studies show that the allergy may actually be to the mold housed in the decorative pine needles.

In fact, researchers in Connecticut found that live Christmas trees released a significant amount of mold spores after being indoors for two weeks. The amount of mold was significant: 10 times what would normally be present without a live Christmas tree in the home.

Most Christmas trees are cut weeks or months before the holiday time period when they are used. As a result, the process of storing to keep them "fresh" is usually in cramped, damp places. This serves as the perfect recipe for mold growth.

Allergy-friendly Christmas tree solutions

Does this mean that someone who has a mold allergy can never have a live Christmas tree in their home? Not necessarily. The key to prevent the allergic reactions is to minimize the amount of time the fresh tree is in the home. Keeping the live tree less than two weeks is key. The less amount of time, the fewer mold spores that will ultimately be emitted.

The best solution for anyone who suffers with a Christmas tree allergy, however, is an artificial tree. This does not completely eliminate the problem though. Dust and mold may still collect on the artificial branches. Storage in a cool, dry place will help minimize this. In addition, wiping or washing the tree down before putting it up each year can help remove the potential allergens.

With a few proactive steps, allergy sufferers can enjoy a Christmas tree, alive or artificial, and have a reaction-free holiday season.