Alantolactone
What is it?
Alantolactone is a natural chemical derived from various species of chrysanthemum and similar plants in the Asteraceae family, particularly those of the inula species.
How do I avoid it?
Skin contact with alantolactone is required for it to cause a rash. Discontinuation of exposure to products containing extracts from the family of plants called Asteraceae (eg, chrysanthemum) should result in improvement and/or resolution of your dermatitis. Avoidance requires reading labels, package inserts, and on occasion, direct communication with the manufacturer. At work, request a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to help identify potential sources of exposure.
Plants in the Asteraceae family are found worldwide. Dust or pollen from these plants can be challenging to avoid. If your rash is primarily in exposed areas of the skin (outside of clothing), rinsing/bathing in a shower after outdoor activities may be helpful.
Uses:
- Skin and hair care products
- Herbal cough preparations
- Traditional Chinese herbal medicines
- Essential oils (eg, Oil of Elecampane Root)
Other names for alantolactone:
- Eupatal
- Helenin
- Helenium
- Inula camphor
- Alant camphor
- Elecampane camphor
- Sesquiterpene lactone
- ALT
Potential cross-reacting/co-reacting substances:
- Other Asteraceae/Compositae plants
- Other sesquiterpene lactones
