Picture it – you’re in the supermarket. Your cart is loaded with your weekly shop. You’re just about to reach for your usual pack of coffee. But then you pause. Because your attention is caught by the 'fair-trade' label next to a slightly pricier brand. In that moment of hesitation, a troubling question pops into your mind: ‘Are my shopping choices harming the world?' This is the quiz to help you unravel that mystery. Continue reading →

In celebration of International Women’s day on March 8th, we would like to remember our mother Caroline Dare (1948-2004). Caroline grew up in the UK and migrated to West Cork with her husband Alan in the early 80’s to find a new life and raise her young family.  Caroline loved working with women, focusing on empowerment and personal development. When she first arrived she held birth-preparation classes and later helped to set up the West Cork and Beara Women’s Network and she worked extensively with Traveller Women in Clonakilty.  Continue reading →

We've been seeing a lot of viral infections circulate in the community since Christmas. Some of them seem to be lingering and causing a lot of really miserable symptoms. Antibiotics won’t help with these conditions as they are only effective against bacterial infections, so we have to think differently about treating these viral infections. One of the most effective supports for treating viral conditions and generally supporting your immune system are herbal remedies.  Continue reading →

This month I decided to focus on a fascinating compound called Sulforaphane - a big name with big health benefits! In fact, it is one of the most potent food-derived anti-carcinogens known at this time. Read on to find out what Sulforaphane is, how it benefits us, and how to maximise its potential in your daily diet.  Continue reading →

It’s that magical time of year again – time for our much-loved staff picks gift guide! Now an established Christmas tradition in its 4th year running. This year's a great one. Yes, you'll find out what our team members are excited to give and get. But you'll also get loads of ideas that ring true to this community’s shared commitment to sustainability and celebrating Irish producers. Continue reading →

How do you take your tea? In Ireland, the love for a comforting cup of tea runs deep in our culture. Yet, beyond our favourite milky brew, there lies a world of super-healthy herbal alternatives. These herbal infusions offer not just warmth but a range of health benefits, aiding detoxification, boosting metabolism, and offering digestive support. And as the cooler months of autumn and winter settle in, a healing cup of herbal tea can nudge your body toward good health gently and naturally. Continue reading →

I recently picked up the Optimum Nutrition Bible by Patrick Holford and was reminded of how inspiring his writing is. I used to use this book all the time - in work and at home, for family health queries, for research - but somehow over the last while I’ve slipped out of the habit of referring to books in favour of online research. Sometimes though this can mean we bounce from trend to trend and end up forgetting the basics of good health.  Continue reading →

If you've been scrolling through your social media feeds this summer, you've likely come across the buzz surrounding castor oil. It seems this ancient remedy has made a remarkable comeback, touted for its multifaceted benefits, from promoting luscious eyebrows to potentially aiding in labour induction.  Continue reading →

Life sure can throw its share of health quirks your way, can’t it? Those moments when your tummy decides to play up, or your joints choose to remind you they're there. But what if, amidst the vast array of solutions, there was a natural and tasty health support tucked away in your kitchen cupboard? That’s what Spoonful Botanical gives you. And folks from our community all the way from Dublin to Clonakilty are singing its praises. Find out how this blend of fermented fruit and spices gets its healing potency, and get our community’s top tips for savouring it.  Continue reading →

Ah, the back-to-school season in Ireland…  We parents all envision that perfect first day – our kids bursting with energy, gobbling up a nutritious breakfast then fearlessly stepping into their new classrooms. But more often than not, reality gifts us a morning sprinkled with chaos and moments of “Mum, where's my left shoe?”  Continue reading →