Summer sorrow oozes vitamin C, valerian and lavender calm the mind, primrose eases coughs, and dog rose petals soothe the nervous system. Wander through a suburban garden on Galway city's west side, and you're likely to find a cure for almost every physical and mental ailment.
Chives, for instance, can be used as an antiseptic, while St John's Wort can treat mild depression. Ground ivy helps people afflicted with sinus trouble, and feverfew can banish headaches.
This Sunday (June 20th) Dr Dilis Clare plans to throw her garden, featuring 65 different types of herb, open to visitors to raise funds for the Galway Rape Crisis Centre and the Irish Herb Society.
During the afternoon, trained herbalists who are members of the Irish Institute of Medical Herbalism will conduct tours, and visitors are welcome to ask questions, take photographs and notes and "learn loads of useful tips that will improve cooking and medicine cabinets". Herbal teas will be available, along with light refreshments.
Dr Clare is an established medical doctor and herbalist, and member of the Irish Institute of Herbalists. She currently practises in Galway's William Street West at her "Alternative Health and Herbs" clinic and shop.
There is no set fee, but visitors will be asked to give an entrance donation which will go directly towards the Irish Herb Society and the Galway Rape Crisis Centre.
Parents are asked to bring children under three years of age in buggies for safety reasons.
Dr Clare's garden is open from 12 noon to 6 p.m. on June 20th at 44 Seacrest (off Ballymoneen Road), Knocknacarra, Galway.
