Salvia, commonly known as Sage, is a wide-spread genus of plants that grow in various regions across the United States. The specific locations often depend on the species of Salvia.

Northern and Eastern Regions

• Salvia lyrata, or Lyreleaf Sage, is native to eastern and central USA, growing from Florida to Texas and north to Maine and Michigan.
• Salvia apiana, or White Sage, can be found in the western and northern parts of America.

Western Regions

• Salvia dorrii, or Desert Sage, is commonly found in desert regions of the western USA.
• Salvia leucophylla, or Purple Sage, grows in California and western Nevada.

Southwestern Region

• Salvia clevelandii, or Cleveland Sage, is dominant in the southwestern USA, particularly in California.

Southeastern Region

• Salvia azurea, or Pitcher Sage, naturally grows in the southeastern states.

Note that some Salvia species are cultivated in gardens across the country, which can also contribute to the presence of Salvia pollen.

People with a Salvia pollen allergy, also known as Oral Allergy Syndrome, could have cross-reactivity with certain foods. This is due to the proteins in these foods being similar to those found in Salvia pollen, making the body mistake the food for the allergen and causing an allergic reaction. Intensified allergy symptoms could occur when consuming these foods, especially during the Salvia pollen season.

Fruits

• Apple: Can cause a pollen food allergy syndrome to patients allergic to Salvia pollen.
• Peach: Just like an apple, peaches host proteins similar to pollen that aggravate the Salvia allergy.
• Plums: These are among fruits linked with worsening Salvia pollen allergy symptoms.
• Cherries: Can cause allergic reactions in people with Salvia pollen allergy.

Vegetables

• Tomatoes: The proteins in tomatoes could cause an unfavorable reaction to someone with a Salvia allergy.
• Carrots: Allergy symptoms can be aggravated by the proteins found in carrots.
• Peppers: All types of peppers, bell peppers or hot peppers, can further excite Salvia pollen allergy.

Nuts and Spices

• Almonds: This nut is known to invoke symptoms of Salvia pollen allergy.
• Fennel: This aromatic herb can evoke adverse reactions in individuals with Salvia allergies.
• Anise: Salvia allergy symptoms can also be triggered by anise, a flavorful spice.

Allergic symptoms can be quite subjective and vary from person to person, so it's always good to maintain a balanced diet and notice potential reaction triggers. In addition, cooking or peeling the fruits and vegetables may help reduce the allergic reaction.