Cup primrose

Today a widespread ornamental plant, originally from China. It was brought to Europe in the 19th century and spread worldwide from there. Little medicinal use in contrast to other primula species (e.g. Primula elatior). Flower color pink or white. Flowering time - February to October, fruit ripening - September to November

benzoquinone, primine, miconidine, miconidine methyl ether

Sensitization is caused by the quinone Primin (2-methyl-6-pentyl-1,4-benzoquinone). Sensitizing potency: Very strong. Sensitization frequency: Occasionally. see under Primrose dermatitis.

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

Cross allergies: primroses(Primula veris), tansy, bee willow, East Indian rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia), teakwoods, ornamental orchids, alkyl quinone-containing bath sponges, primin-containing sea urchins, stone urchins

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. Occupational primrose allergies in gardeners or florists are rare. Cross-reactivity can occur in contact with other plants and wood species containing quinones with related structures, 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).

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.

1. Montag A (2023) Plants and skin. Springer-Verlag Ltd. S. 817-820.