Olive (Tree)
Description
Olive trees (Olea europaea) are evergreen trees in the family Oleaceae, native to the Mediterranean region. They have gnarled, twisted trunks, silvery-green leaves with pale undersides, and small fragrant white flowers. Olives are among the oldest cultivated trees in the world, prized for thousands of years for their fruit and oil. Beyond agriculture, olive trees are popular in ornamental landscaping throughout Mediterranean climates and similar regions.
Allergy Symptoms
Olive pollen is a significant allergen, especially in Mediterranean regions:
- Sneezing and runny or congested nose
- Itchy, watery, red eyes
- Coughing and throat irritation
- Asthma flare-ups and wheezing
There’s cross-reactivity with other Oleaceae family members, including ash and privet. Some people experience Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) with peaches, pears, and cherries. The relationship between olive pollen allergy and reactions to olive fruit or oil is complex and varies between individuals — having a pollen allergy doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll react to the food.
Typical Pollination Period
Olive tree pollination varies by region:
- Mediterranean regions: Mid-April to late June, with peak levels in May and June
- Other regions: Late spring to early summer where olives are cultivated
Geographic Distribution
Olive trees grow mainly in:
- Mediterranean basin: Native and extensively cultivated in Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, and North Africa
- Other regions: Cultivated in California, Australia, South Africa, Chile, and Argentina where climates are suitable
Tips for Allergy Sufferers
- Check pollen forecasts and limit time outdoors when counts are high
- Keep windows closed and use HEPA air purifiers
- Shower and change clothes after being outside
- Antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids can help — ask your doctor
- Watch for cross-reactions with ash and privet pollen
- For persistent symptoms, consider allergy testing or immunotherapy