Watch out for that parthenium itch

BANGALORE: This weed has caused allergies among 40% of Bangalore's population,
and 7% suffer because of it, for the weed is still uncontrolled
and is multiplying. Parthenium, imported from the US in the mid 1950's, has
become one of India's biggest environmental and health issues.

The Karnataka Pollution Control Board organized a discussion on the control of
parthenium and its health impact on Thursday.

They are still added in bouquets to complement other vibrant flowers and also as
decorative pieces. However, the pollen of this weed are extremely hazardous and
can cause severe respiratory problems and skin diseases. They have 624 million
pollen grains per plant and produce 24,000 seeds each which spread rapidly and
consume almost all kinds of vacant and farm land.

Director, JSS Rural development foundation, M Mahadevappa said the control of
parthenium has been good in Bangalore and southern Maharashtra but not in other
parts. The testimony of a patient -- who suffers from photo phyto dermatitis due
to continued exposure to parthenium -- was presented. Street children and
labourers are the most vulnerable to such allergies.

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