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Peppertree

Peppertree

Peppertree Scientific Information
Type: Whole Allergen
Display Name: Peppertree
Allergen code: t217
Family: Anacardiaceae
Latin Name: Schinus molle
Other Names: Brazil peppertree, California pepper tree, Molle, Pepper tree, Peruvian peppertree, Schinus, Peruvian mastic tree, American pepper, False pepper

Clinical Relevance

IgE-mediated reactions

Pollens from the Peppertree can induce asthma, allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis

In a study of 71 subjects of both sexes, aged from 14 to 40 years, 31% were found to be sensitized to Peppertree pollen, as measured by skin prick testing. All subjects who tested positive were sensitized to Mango tree pollen (Magnifera indica) as well.

Other reactions

Virtually all parts of this tree, including the trunk, leaves, and fruit, have been used in home medicines from Mexico to South America. The dried and roasted berries are used as a Pepper substitute. The essential oil from the fresh leaves of S. molle has been shown to be efficacious against a range of bacteria.

References
  1. Williams DA, Muchugu E, Overholt WA, Cuda JP. Colonization patterns of the invasive Brazilian peppertree, Schinus terebinthifolius, in Florida. Heredity. 2007;98(5):284-93.
  2. Vargas Correa JB, Sanchez Solis L, Farfan Ale JA, Noguchi H, Moguel Banos MT, Vargas de la Pena MI. Allergological study of pollen of mango (Magnifera indica) and cross reactivity with pollen of piru (Schinus molle) [Spanish] Rev Alerg 1991;38(5):134-8
  3. Gundidza M. Antimicrobial activity of essential oil from Schinus molle Linn. The Central African journal of medicine. 1993;39(11):231-4.
  4. L. Y. Botanical relations and immunological cross-reactions in pollen allergy. 2nd ed. Pharmacia Diagnostics AB. Uppsala. Sweden. Pharmacia Diagnostics AB Uppsala Sweden. 1982.