Healthy Beings Health Food Store in Strokestown, Co Roscommon

Owner Anne Quirke and staff member Colette Glynn, test out their favourite health products.

Help for coughs
Anne says: “I’m a big fan of all of Dr Dilis Clare’s herbal products because of how effective they are and I have used many in the range, but my favourite is the Mucotone. As soon as I have the first sign of any cough – dry, tickly or chesty – I will start on the Mucotone and the cough will generally only last two to three days and it’s gone. I usually continue to take it for up to seven days as a tonic and to make sure I don’t have a relapse. Customers have told us it’s the only product that can shift a stubborn cough!”

Soothing heat rub
Anne says: “I use UltraPure Wintergreen Heat Rub for sciatic nerve pain. I find heat really soothes the sacroiliac joint, gluteal and hamstring muscle areas. When the sciatica is painful, I apply it up to four times per day. I have tried other products, but I find the UltraPure Wintergreen Heat Rub the most effective and it has more ‘heat’, which I like as I find it gives me relief.”

Lion’s mane capsules
Anne says: “I use Irish Botanica’s Lion’s Mane Mushroom capsules to support nerve growth and regeneration. Lion’s Mane supports nerve function and aids in the repair process. It is also neuroprotective against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia, so that’s an added bonus! Lion’s Mane also helps improve mood as it modulates the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, enhancing the ‘feel good factor’.”

Omega-3 oils
Anne says: “To help keep inflammation in check, especially around the sciatic nerve, I use Revive Active Omega Active. I take two capsules per day, and I find the blister pack so handy as I leave some at home and some at work so I’ve no excuse not to take it every day! The EPA (the anti-inflammatory compound) is 756mg per two capsules, which is a decent level, and the DHA (brain, eye and nerve supporting nutrient) is 504mg per two capsules.”

Scented serum
Colette says: “I love the Kinvara Rosehip Face Serum. I’ve been using it for about six months now. I really like the scent and it feels nice on my skin. I find my make-up is easier to apply over it and looks smoother. I would highly recommend Kinvara Rosehip Serum.”

Support for digestion
Colette says: “I use Quest Enzyme Digest to help with digestion of foods and to reduce bloating. I usually take two tablets at each main meal and one with smaller meals or snacks. I’ve been taking them on and off as I need them for the past two years.”