Salicylate Sensitivity

Salicylates are chemicals found naturally in all plants, although the amount of salicylates varies from plant to plant. For plants, salicylates act as a natural preservative, protecting against rotting, and against harmful bacteria and fungi. For humans, salicylates are a major ingredient of aspirin and other pain-relieving medications. They also are found in many fruits and vegetables, as well as many common health and beauty products.

Some people have a low level of tolerance (sensitivity) to salicylates and may have reactions if more than a small amount is consumed at one time. Symptoms of salicylate sensitivity vary but may include asthma-like symptoms (such as trouble breathing and wheezing), headaches and/or nasal congestion, changes in skin color, itching, skin rash or hives, swelling of the hands and feet, swelling of the face, and stomach pain. In severe cases, salicylate sensitivity can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction involving a severe drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness and organ system failure. Avoiding products that contain salicylates is the best defense against a sensitivity reaction.

Examples of foods that may contain salicylates

• Fruits such as apples, avocados, blueberries, dates, kiwi fruit, peaches, raspberries, figs, grapes, plums, strawberries, cherries, grapefruit and prunes
• Vegetables such as alfalfa, cauliflower, mushrooms, radishes, broad beans, eggplant, spinach, zucchini, broccoli and peppers
• Herbs, spices and condiments such as dry spices and powders, tomato pastes and sauces, vinegar and soy sauce
• Beverages such as instant coffee, wine, orange juice, apple cider, regular and herbal tea, beer, rum and sherry
• Nuts such as pine nuts, peanuts, pistachios and almonds
• Some candies, such as peppermints, licorice and mint-flavored gum and breath mints

Products that may contain aspirin or a salicylate compound:

• Fragrances and perfumes
• Shampoos and conditioners
• Herbal remedies
• Cosmetics such as lipsticks. Lotions and skin cleansers
• Mouthwash and mint-flavored toothpaste
• Shaving cream
• Sunscreens or tanning lotions
• Muscle pain creams
• Sodium bicarbonate with aspirin (Alka Seltzer)

Ingredients to look for:

• Aspirin
• Acetylsalicylic acid
• Artificial food coloring and flavoring
• Benzoates
• Beta-hydroxy acid
• Magnesium salicylate
• Menthol
• Mint
• Salicylate
• Salicylic acid
• Peppermint
• Phenylethyl salicylate
• Sodium salicylate
• Spearmint