Ambrozia, also known as ragweed, is considered the most dangerous allergenic plant in the world, responsible for more than half of pollen‑related allergies and affecting roughly 10 % of the population. The pollination period has now started in early July; a single plant can release up to eight billion pollen grains, causing severe respiratory symptoms such as repeated sneezing, nasal congestion, eye irritation and breathing difficulties. "Ambrozia, una dintre cele mai invazive plante alergene, a intrat în perioada de polenizare," health officials emphasized.
Doctors in Romania and Moldova are urging residents to monitor pollen levels, avoid high‑pollen zones, and seek medical care if symptoms worsen. At the same time, scientists are investigating the plant’s complex chemistry for potential anti‑tumor, hepatoprotective and cholesterol‑lowering effects, with Russian researchers among the most active in this line of study.