Natural Rubber Latex (NRL) is made from the latex that is extracted from actual rubber trees (Hevea Brasiliensis) most commonly found in Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. The rubber trees found in these countries have a life cycle of about 32 years, yet the prime ages to extract rubber from these trees are in the trees 5-7 years old.
Extracting the latex from these trees is known as "rubber tapping". Once the rubber tree is "tapped", it typically takes about four hours for the latex to be collected. The latex is milky white in color and collects from dripping from the tree into a bucket. If tapped properly, the tree's growth potential is not harmed.
Natural Latex Mattress
Latex Products
NRL is a commonly used material for millions of people every day due to its elasticity, protection and durability. There are roughly 40,000 products that contain latex, yet many people are unaware that the products they use every day may contain latex. Some of these products include medical devices such as gloves, IV tubes and catheters. Latex is also found in children's products such as pacifiers, bottle nipples and some toys. Other common products include condoms, rubber bands, carpet backing and the elastic found in clothing such as waist bands, bras and underwear.
Latex Allergy
Natural rubber latex contains over 200 proteins, 13 of which are suspected allergens. These antigenic proteins can cause allergic reactions in latex sensitive people. Reactions can range from minor skin irritation and redness to sneezing to anaphylactic shock, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Other symptoms include skin rash, hives, irritated or watery eyes, swollen eyes, itching and/or difficulty breathing.
Latex allergy has increased since the early 1990's. It is estimated that up to three percent of the general population is at risk for an allergic reaction to natural rubber latex. Repeated exposure contributes to the irritations associated with latex allergy in some people. Cross-reactivity can occur in people with food allergies related to bananas, avocados, chestnuts and kiwi, because these fruits have proteins that are similar to those in latex.
Reducing the Risk of Latex Allergy
The best way to reduce the risk of having an allergic reaction to latex is to avoid the products that may contain latex. Understanding what type of products contains latex is the first step in avoiding latex allergies. Constant contact with these products could trigger allergic reactions in those that have a high sensitivity to latex.
Consult your Physician
If you think you have a latex allergy, you should consult your physician and consider being tested for latex allergies.