Mugwort Pollen Allergy

Mugwort pollen is the light, wind-carried pollen of the mugwort weed (Artemisia vulgaris). It is among the most common weed pollen allergy triggers, with levels peaking from July to September.

These grains can cause allergic reactions in some people, especially during late summer and early autumn. Mugwort pollen allergy is relatively common across Europe.

Just like ragweed, birch, and alder, mugwort is a common cause of seasonal allergies. These allergies are triggered when your immune system reacts to the pollen in the air, thinking it is harmful.

This can cause a range of symptoms, which we will discuss below.

Symptoms of a Mugwort Allergy

If you are allergic to mugwort pollen, you might experience:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
• Red, watery eyes
• Wheezing or coughing
• In severe cases, asthma symptoms may worsen

Where is Mugwort Pollen Found?

Mugwort pollen is found all over Europe, Asia, and North America. The plant thrives in meadows, along roadsides, and even in gardens. It is particularly common in areas with lots of open land.

In Europe, our forecasts regularly show high mugwort pollen levels in cities like Berlin, Paris, Vienna, and Budapest.

The pollen can travel far because it is light and easily carried by the wind. This means even if you do not live near mugwort plants, you could still be affected by their pollen.

According to the Vienna Pollen Service at MedUni Vienna, mugwort is highly allergenic and can cause allergic symptoms even at relatively low pollen concentrations.

When is Mugwort Pollen Season?

Mugwort pollen season usually starts in early July and can last until September. The main flowering period, when pollen counts are highest, is typically around mid-August.

Researchers have observed that two late-flowering non-native mugwort species, Chinese mugwort (Artemisia verlotiorum) and annual mugwort (Artemisia annua), have become established in some areas. These species flower later in the year, which can extend the pollen season into autumn.

Pollen counts are typically higher on warm, dry, and windy days. Checking local pollen forecasts can help you know when mugwort pollen levels are high and plan your activities accordingly.

Treating a Mugwort Pollen Allergy

There are several ways to manage a mugwort pollen allergy:

• Avoiding Pollen: Stay indoors on days with high pollen counts, especially in the morning when pollen release is often highest. Keep windows closed to prevent pollen from entering your home.
• Medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Nasal sprays and eye drops can also provide relief.
• Nasal Rinses: Rinsing your nose with saline solution can help clear out pollen and soothe irritation.
• Allergy Immunotherapy: For severe symptoms, a doctor may recommend specific immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets). Research at MedUni Vienna has laid the foundation for the development of a vaccine against mugwort allergy, with ongoing clinical trials exploring new treatment options.

Understanding mugwort pollen and how it affects you can make dealing with allergies easier. Keeping track of pollen counts and using the right treatments can help you feel better during allergy season.

Cross-Reactivity and Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)

If you are allergic to mugwort pollen, you may also experience itching, tingling, or mild swelling in your mouth, lips, or throat after eating certain fresh fruits, vegetables, or spices. This is known as Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) or Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS).

It happens because your immune system mistakes proteins in some foods for mugwort pollen proteins.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), common trigger foods for people with mugwort pollen allergy include:

• Vegetables: Bell pepper, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, chard, garlic
• Spices and herbs: Anise, caraway, coriander, fennel, parsley, black pepper

Other foods that may cause reactions include celery, carrot, and certain fruits like melon and tomato. Celery food allergy is most closely linked to birch and mugwort pollen sensitization and is often referred to as the "birch-mugwort-celery syndrome".

Cooking or peeling these foods can often reduce or prevent the reaction. If you notice any symptoms, talk to your doctor for advice.

Mugwort Pollen FAQ

What are mugwort pollen allergy symptoms?

Typical symptoms are sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, nose, or throat, red watery eyes, and wheezing or coughing. Mugwort is highly allergenic and can cause symptoms even at low pollen concentrations.

When is mugwort pollen season?

Mugwort season usually starts in early July and lasts until September, with the main flowering around mid August. Late flowering non native species can stretch the season into autumn. Counts run highest on warm, dry, windy days.

Which foods cross react with mugwort pollen?

Common triggers include bell pepper, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, garlic, and spices such as anise, caraway, coriander, fennel, parsley, and black pepper. Celery, carrot, melon, and tomato can also react. Cooking or peeling often helps. Talk to your doctor if you notice symptoms.

How can I reduce mugwort pollen symptoms?

Stay indoors on high pollen days, especially in the morning, and keep windows closed. Saline nose rinses clear pollen and soothe irritation. Ask your doctor about medication or immunotherapy if symptoms are severe.

Last reviewed: October 2026.

Check Pollen Levels for Mugwort Pollen

See the current mugwort pollen levels across Europe on our Pollen Map (select "mugwort" on the map options).

You can also sign up for pollen alerts to be notified of high mugwort pollen days in your city.

Track mugwort on iPhone with our free pollen count app.

Pollen guides are for education and planning only. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider about symptoms or treatment.