Learn how to recognise the healing plants of the Celts

Many of the healing plants of the Celts are common ‘weeds’, such as the dandelion, which some people recognise, though they are often unaware of their healing properties. However some Celtic medicinal plants are rare, such as Motherwort and Roseroots. It is vitally important to recognise the plant that you are going to use as a medicine because there are thousands of plants and many of them are similar, but have completely different properties. In this workshop the fine detail of the botanical features of each plant will be pointed out in easy to understand language.

Learn where to find these plants

Some of these plants grow near to human habitation, but some only grow in special places where conditions are right for them. It is important not to pick plants growing next to crops that have been sprayed, or near to roads, where they are contaminated by traffic fumes.

Learn how to grow these plants

You will be encouraged to grow some of these medicinal plants, in your garden if you have one, in window boxes or even hanging pots in the kitchen, in order to feel connected to them and their healing properties. Each plant requires specific growing conditions. Some are easy to grow and some are a real challenge.

Learn how to preserve and prepare these plants

You will be given a brief outline of preservation and preparation techniques in this one-day workshop.

Discover how the ancient Celts used these plants

The ancient Celts used many plants for divination. Often the symbolic meaning was the most significant aspect of each plant. However they had many and varied techniques for making ointments, infusions, decoctions etc.

Learn about the research which demonstrates that these plants really do have healing properties

Plants contain a cornucopia of compounds, which act on human cells and systems. Scientists the world over, have carried out research on many of these plants, demonstrating that they really do have physiological effects.