Celtic medicine

These species were selected according to a number of criteria including their availability in quantity, whether currently in trade or considered by end users to have potential. In addition, Eyebright and St Johns Wort were among others also felt to have potential. It is possible to see the common species on this latter list and on the list of important plants in Celtic medicine. 

The core philosophy seems to have been the importance of preventative medicine and attention to the overall health of the body through cleanliness and hygiene. The remedies were all well documented. This healing tradition was part of the Celtic perspective on life, which once pervaded the whole of Britain and much of mainland Europe. 

So the question should now be asked is there a future in the past The answer lies in two areas. The first is in the general context of today s trend. There is still an interest in traditional medicines in the Highlands by doctors and pharmacists as evidenced by the existence of the Scottish Society of Historical Medicine. There is also the impact of plant based medicines and self medication in Eastern Europe and Germany, which continues the Celtic tradition of preventative medicine. In addition, there is the role of Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines and traditions from the rain forests of South America. All of this is fuelled by the interest of consumers in self administered, health and body care using plant based materials. 

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