Ireland's Hidden Medicine

by Rosarie Kingston

An exploration of the rich herbal healing traditions of Ireland which resonate through the country’s landscape, music, festivals and language. Indigenous medicine, no matter where it exists in the world, is characterised by the oral transmission of knowledge and the necessity for each person to be in harmony with themselves, their society and environment, as well as the spirit world. Ireland is no different, and its traditional therapeutic approach is designed to address body, mind, spirit and emotions within the local social and environmental context. However, these ancient healing traditions are increasingly neglected due to the dominance of biomedicine as the country's primary system of healthcare. Ireland's Hidden Medicine explores how the core elements of any medical system are always the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and prevention of ill health. These central elements do not change, but the medical systems which give them expression may evolve, mutate, and even die, because their fortunes are tied up with the changing cultural, technological, and economic paradigms of their societies. This book provides a fascinating look at the history and fortunes of Irish folk medicine - from the legendary god of healing, Dein Checht, to the coming of Christianity and the religious and social backdrop of the nation's development. The book also provides a seasonal guide to utilising Ireland's indigenous medicine, which provides a wealth of benefits and a connection to a sacred and therapeutic landscape.

Genres: Ireland, Nonfiction, Nature

172 pages, Paperback

Published October 28, 2021

Reviews

[John Dawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating and rare glimpse into a largely forgotten art of traditional healing, in Ireland. Quite short, but still dense with information. Reads like a modern book but with a deep feeling for the past.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short book but don’t underestimate it!
A great range of stories and information regarding the traditional ways of healing and medicine. Great for someone new to the topic or revisiting or even as a gift.