Bingelkraut annual

The annual Bingelkraut, Mercurialis annua is a herbaceous plant that reaches a size of 10-40 cm and grows on wasteland in vineyards and fields. The plant is found throughout Europe, especially in the Mediterranean area. The leaves are ovoid-lanceolate, with serrated edges. The flower colour of the Bingelkräuter is yellowish-green.

Allergologically, the pollen Mercuralis annua plays a major role. Isolated is mer a 1, a profilin, which was identified as an allergen in larger studies in about 7% of a cohort of examined children. However, regional differences play a major role in sensitization to herbal pollen.

In ancient Rome the Bingelkraut was named after the god Mercus (hence the botanical genus name Mercurialis).

1. Arberer W (2008) Contact allergy and medicinal plants. JDDG 6: 15-24

2. García-Ortega P et al (1992) Mercurialis annua pollen: a new source of allergic sensitization and respiratory disease. J Allergy Clin Immunol 89:987-993.

3. Hausen BM, Vieluf K (1997) Allergy plants, plant allergens. Ecomed publishing house Landsberg (Munich) 81-82

4. Vallverdú A et al (1998) Characterization of recombinant Mercurialis annua major allergen Mer a 1 (profilin). J Allergy Clin Immunol 101:363-370.