Viburnum: an overview in relation to risks of allergy

Abstract

The genus _Viburnum_ L. (Adoxaceae, formally classified as Caprifoliaceae), contains approximately 163 species of high ecological value, distributed in the temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere and extending to the mountains of South America and Asia. Some species have been considered for contact sensitivity and the pollen allergenicity. The literature shows that some species can give contact hypersensitivity and _V. opulus_ can determine pollen allergy. The pratical implications of this research are destined to the public health practitioners and policymakers, the green desiners, and the public administrations: in fact, the specific knowledgements of the use of _Viburnum_ species in gardening can help to deduce some important considerations about the right destinations of the plants. In particular, in the case of school gardens, children’s green areas or sport areas, some species, as _V. opulus_, _V.plicatum, V. tinus, V. rhytidophyllum,_ wich cause dermatitis in the case of contact, should be avoid.