Hayfever is a type of allergic rhinitis where the allergen appears in the form of pollen whereas Allergic Rhinitis is a non-seasonal reaction to airborne allergens with similar symptoms which typically include itchy eyes, sore throat/cough, blocked ears/earache running/blocked nose, sneezing, itchy skin/skin rash, headaches and fatigue. Allergic Rhinitis symptoms can happen at any time of the year and can sometimes appear later in life especially during the menopause years. The symptoms are often triggered by allergens in the home such as those from house dust mites, pets and indoor moulds. Hayfever fluctuates in severity depending on the time of year as different pollens are released at different times of the spring and summer. Each individual person tends to react in their own set of pollens and may therefore experience symptoms at different times to other hay fever sufferers. GRASS POLLINATION MID-MAY TO JULY TREE POLLINATION MARCH TO MID-MAY WEED […]

Cacao long been used as a mood enhancer, currency, love drug and indulgent food. Our affinity to cacao and chocolate can be traced back thousands of years to the Olmec people in central America, the first cacao-loving civilisation. The word cacao is thought to come from the Zoque word ‘kawkaw’.  The Mayans followed in their appreciation and even used cacao as currency. When the Conquistadors landed in what is now Mexico and encountered Emperor Montezuma from the Aztecs. According to legend, the emperor would consume up to 50 golden goblets of drinking chocolate a day! He claimed it “builds up resistance, fights fatigue” and can “permit a man to walk for a whole day without food.” The Mayans and Aztecs often mixed ground cacao beans with vanilla, cinnamon and chilli to make a bitter and spicy drink. It was used by Montezuma as sustenance for his soldiers and also in […]

Why is the liver important? The liver’s primary function is detoxification. A healthy liver deals with thousands of toxins each day, including airborne pollutants, caffeine, alcohol, food toxins (additives, preservatives, pesticides), and the chemicals from household and personal care products. The liver’s other functions include: Signs of a sluggish liver What causes liver damage? Ways to boost liver function? Herbs for liver health Herbs can be combined in a herbal formula and taken as a liquid tincture, capsule, tablet or tea. For best results, consult with a qualified herbalist or nutritional therapist. Improve liver function naturally Keeping your liver strong and healthy is key; when your detoxification pathways don’t work efficiently, your whole body will be negatively affected. Improve liver function naturally by limiting your exposure to toxins and increasing your nutrient intake. Eat sulphur-rich foods and avoid caffeine, alcohol and sugar. Support your liver with B vitamins, antioxidants and liver herbs […]