Mint Allergy IgE Blood Test

Order a mint allergy IgE blood test to detect an allergy to mint. This test measures the amount of allergen-specific antibodies in a blood sample. 

Mint is a group of leafy plants that includes peppermint, spearmint, and wild mint. Although mint allergy is not common, the plant's oil and leaves are used for many purposes. The plant oil, especially peppermint, is commonly used to give flavor to ice cream, gum, candy, liquor, and many other foods. Oils are also used to add flavor to products such as mouthwash and toothpaste and add fragrance to lotions and perfumes.

Some individuals use the mint plant oil and leaves as an herbal medicine for conditions such as relieving a headache or calming an upset stomach.

An allergy to mint triggers a reaction in an individual's immune system. The body views certain substances as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Allergy symptoms can occur by consuming mint or coming in physical contact with the plant. The symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions, which can be experienced within minutes to hours after consumption or contact. Common symptoms of a mint allergy by consumption may include one or more of the following symptoms:

• Mouth tingling or itching
• Swollen, itchy throat
• Swollen, lips, and tongue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea

The reaction that occurs when physical contact is made with the plant is known as contact dermatitis.  The area of skin that touches the mint may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Itchiness, often severe
• Redness
• Tenderness or pain
• Swelling
• Hives
• Blisters that release a clear fluid