Ragweed
Ragweed
Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), also known as annual ragweed or low ragweed, is a species of flowering plant in the aster family. It is native to North America and is a major cause of allergic reactions in late summer and early fall.
Pronunciation
Ragweed: /ˈræɡwiːd/
Etymology
The term "ragweed" comes from the ragged appearance of the plant's leaves. The genus name Ambrosia is derived from the Greek word for "food of the gods," while artemisiifolia refers to the plant's similarity to plants in the Artemisia genus.
Description
Ragweed plants are annuals that grow from 1 to 5 feet tall. They have deeply lobed, fern-like leaves and produce small, greenish flowers in late summer and early fall. The flowers produce large amounts of pollen, which is easily carried by the wind and can cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
Related Terms
- Allergy: A hypersensitivity reaction to a particular allergen; symptoms can vary greatly in intensity.
- Pollen: Microscopic particles produced by plants for sexual reproduction.
- Artemisia: A large, diverse genus of plants with species that are known for their aromatic properties and uses in traditional medicine.
Health Impact
Ragweed pollen is a common allergen. A single plant may produce about a billion grains of pollen per season, and the pollen is transported on the wind. It causes about half of all cases of pollen-associated allergic rhinitis in North America, where ragweeds are most abundant and diverse.
Prevention and Control
Prevention and control of ragweed can be achieved through a combination of mechanical methods, such as mowing and tilling, and chemical methods, such as the use of herbicides. In some areas, biological control agents, such as certain types of insects or fungi, are also used.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ragweed
- Wikipedia's article - Ragweed
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