Itchy eyes? Runny nose? Prepare for allergy season

Although the coming of spring means longer and lighter days, spring’s beautiful blossoms can also mean runny noses and itchy eyes! Before allergy season takes hold this year, get prepared with these tips and tricks. Empty the bucket If you imagine the body as a bucket, some people only start getting reactions to allergens when their bucket is too full. What fills up the bucket? The usual suspects: stress, alcohol, coffee, lack of sleep, environmental chemicals, processed foods… Spring is a great time to start a detoxification programme to empty that bucket. You can also try reducing some of the diet and lifestyle factors that overload the liver and disturb the gut, like too much alcohol, caffeine or sugar. Balance your nutrients Making sure you’re getting all your key nutrients is really important. Start with essential fatty acids (to help balance immune function and reduce reactivity) and run selectively through the alphabet from Vitamin A (to support mucous membranes and tissue health) all the way to Zinc (for immune function support). One way to do this is by enjoying a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and wholegrains. Aim to eat a rainbow to maximise the nutrients you’re getting, like red berries, yellow capsicums or orange carrots.  Try some balm Popping a little bit of good quality balm or ointment inside your nostrils can minimise your exposure to airborne allergens because it’ll catch some on the way in! Calendula is a great option. Reach for herbal support For help with stuffy noses, try Kiwiherb De-Stuff. It works to support clear airways thanks to Elderflower, which is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine as a decongestant. This is combined with Echinacea, which is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to improve immune system function. For smaller noses, try Kiwiherb De-Stuff for Kids - it tastes great, meaning children will be happy to take it! Both certified organic, they contain no nasties. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.