Cup primrose

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

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Last updated on: 29.10.2020

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Synonym(s)

obconian primula; Poison primrose; Primrose; Primulaceae

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Today widely used ornamental plant, originally from China. It was brought to Europe in the 19th century and from there it spread worldwide. Low medicinal use in contrast to other primrose species (e.g. Primula elatior).

Undesirable effectsThis section has been translated automatically.

Sensitization is triggered by the quinone primin (2-methyl-6-pentyl-1,4-benzoquinone). Sensitizing potency: Very strong. Sensitization frequency: Occasional.

The medically used primrose species (Primula officinalis) contain almost no primin.

Clinical pictureThis section has been translated automatically.

The literature reports numerous cases of irritant and allergic reactions after contact with the cup primrose. The most common allergic contact eczema today is observed in connection with domestic or hobby gardening activities.

In a larger (Italian) collective of patients with potential contact sensitization (n=24,000), Bongiorni L et al (2015) demonstrated a primin sensitization of 1.9%, with women (2.6%) more frequently sensitized than men (0.5%). In certain areas of Italy (Pordonne) even higher sebisbilisation rates (up to 6%) were detected.

Occupational primrose allergies among gardeners or florists are rare. Cross-reactivity may occur in contact with other plants and wood species containing quinones with related structure, such as exotic wood species(Dalbergia species, rosewood) such as teak or rosewood. Related chinoid constituents are also found in other primrose species, orchid species, etc. as well as marine animals (e.g. in natural sponges).

Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.

Primin appears to have an antineoplastic effect on basal cell carcinoma. Due to its high sensitizing potency, it was not used therapeutically. Furthermore, Primin seems to have antibiotic and antimicrobial as well as molluscicidal effects.

LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.

  1. Bongiorni L et al (2015) Primin sensitization in north-eastern Italy: a temporal trend from 1996 to 2012. contact dermatitis 73:108-112.
  2. Sashida Y (2014)Dermatitis caused by primulas. Chudoku Kenkyu 27:28-30.

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Last updated on: 29.10.2020