Although some of my allergies are pretty strange and random, I do have allergies that are more common - like to certain antibiotics (Penicillin family) and anti-inflammatories like NSAIDS and ASA (Aspirin...).
With this comes the responsibility of doing your due diligence and being wary of ingredients lists.
Now, to add to confusion, with the rise of more 'natural alternatives' to western uses of medicine, there is a trend of going back to the original plants for their beneficial effects. These plants are being added to supplements and natural health products, more for marketing purposes, but without the regulation.
For instance, if a medication contains Acetyl-Salicylic-Acid (ASA; Aspirin) there must be a warning on the package stating not to take the medication if you have had an allergic reaction to Aspirin. If you pick up a pack of Gravol that contains Willow Bark, there will be fine print providing a similar warning - since Willow Bark is the original plant matter of what we commonly know as Aspirin.
I have mentioned before about skincare products also containing Salicylic Acid... with no warning.
Now Willow Bark is now showing up in tea blends of popular tea companies.
Again, with no clear warning. For the overwhelming majority of people, this is a complete non-issue. As a patient, it is my responsibility to know these things and companies cannot be expected to provide warnings for every ingredient they use and possible rare allergic reactions.
This is just a reminder that if you DO have allergies, especially uncommon ones, it can be IMPERATIVE to know the common medical names, the original plant names of where the medication came from, and any substances that are considered of the same family.
It is worth doing your homework. 😊