This month we will discuss the benefits and uses of medicinal mushrooms. I was fortunate to train under Martin Powell, author of Medicinal Mushrooms: A Clinical Guide, and here is a brief overview of why medicinal mushrooms can be beneficial when prescribed correctly.
Medicinal mushrooms are certain fungi used as food supplements because they may support health in various ways. They have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are now growing in popularity with the general public. These mushrooms are not the same as common button mushrooms used in cooking, although some edible mushrooms also provide beneficial nutrients.
Medicinal mushrooms are typically taken as teas, powders, capsules, or extracts. One of the main reasons people use medicinal mushrooms is their possible effect on the immune system. They contain compounds such as Beta glucans, selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6, which may help the body defend itself and reduce cell damage. Some species are also studied for their antioxidant and anti inflammatory effects. Medicinal mushrooms can also support general wellness. They may be included in daily routines to help with energy, digestion, or stress support, depending on the type.
Reishi, Turkey tail, Chaga, and Shiitake are among the most well known varieties. Turkey tail is often linked with immune support, while Chaga is commonly discussed for its antioxidant content. These products are usually sold as supplements rather than as medicines, which means they may support health but are not a cure for serious illness. It is important to choose products from trusted brands and to avoid taking medicinal mushrooms without guidance from a qualified health professional.
Talk to a doctor before using them, especially if you are pregnant, taking medication, or have a long term health condition, since they can cause unwanted side effects or allergies. Professional advice helps ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual health needs. In simple terms, medicinal mushrooms are a natural option some people use to support immunity, nutrition, and overall wellbeing when used carefully and as part of a healthy lifestyle. The following are generally discussed as functional mushrooms—meaning they are used for wellness support rather than as everyday food.
In Wellness Susan
susangrahamcoaching@gmail.com
By Dave Kavanagh
Everything you eat, drink, wear, own, where you live, travel to and how you get there, are all connected to your finances. Yet most people don’t give budgeting the time and importance it deserves, especially as it could leave you with more money left over each month. A few practical tips:
Carefully study 3 months’ bank statements. Make sure that you can account for every single transaction. On a regular basis, I encounter people who have been paying for things that they should not be, direct debits they forgot to cancel.
Make a detailed list for grocery shopping (and don’t shop while hungry). This leads to only buying what you actually need, a lower bill at the till and less throwing out of food gone off.
Compare before you shop for larger items. Just because one store has a fridge you want reduced from €950 to €850 in their “Sale”, does not mean another store nearby that does not currently have a sale on, is not selling the same one for €799.
Compare utility providers. Whether it’s electricity, gas, broadband, mobile phone service or similar, there can be substantial savings to be had by switching to better deals.
Check when car/house insurance renewals arrive. Don’t automatically accept a renewal premium without checking around. A few phone calls could save you hundreds of euro.
Review premiums on life cover/mortgage protection/serious illness cover. Especially if you arranged it directly with a bank or insurance company that could not compare. Do an exercise where you track spending for one month. In over 30 years of helping people with their finances, I have never seen anyone NOT make savings by doing the above. If anyone would like the free budget spreadsheet in excel format that will calculate totals as you input them, just email info@financialcompanion.ie with Budget in the subject line. Happy saving!
Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM, LMFM and TV3.
Introduction
Homeopathy is a complementary system of medicine that uses natural substances to stimulate the body’s self-healing. It was developed over 200 years ago by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognises homeopathy as one of the most widely used therapeutic systems worldwide, with significant use across the USA, South America, Asia, and Europe. The WHO includes homeopathy within its broader approach to traditional medicine and notes its role in expanding healthcare options for diverse populations. It also emphasises that homeopathy can be used safely at all ages when prescribed by a qualified practitioner.
Homeopathic remedies are tailored to each individual. Practitioners take a holistic approach, treating the person rather than just the symptoms, with the aim of addressing the root cause of illness. Homeopathy is used for a wide range of conditions, including fevers, colds and flu, digestive issues, allergies, minor injuries, skin conditions, asthma, pain, joint disorders, migraines, urinary tract infections, insomnia, sinusitis, infertility, cancer care, mental well-being, and developmental disorders.
In this article, I’ll focus on a timely topic: exam and study support. Pre-exam nerves can be overwhelming, while long study hours often lead to headaches, fatigue, and insomnia. Feeling nervous before exams is normal, but for some, anxiety can take over. Homeopathy offers a natural way to manage exam stress without causing drowsiness or side effects.
Below are six remedies for symptoms linked to exam stress and overwork. The most suitable option is always the one that best matches the student’s individual symptoms.
Aconite
Aconite is used for sudden, intense fear, such as anxiety attacks before an exam. Students are restless and panicky and may pace up and down, expecting the worst outcome. Aconite will help settle their nerves and allow them to sleep better.
Argentum Nitricum
Argentum Nitricum is suited for overthinking and performance anxiety. The person is typically nervous and hurried and may experience diarrhoea or digestive issues from stress. They often crave sweet things, which can further upset their stomach.
Gelsemium
This is a well-known remedy for exam nerves. It helps when the person feels overwhelmed and “paralysed” by anxiety, viewing every exam as a huge ordeal. They may feel weak, dizzy and shaky and have difficulty concentrating and may experience bouts of diarrhoea before exams.
Kali Phos
Kali Phos, is a highly regarded homeopathic remedy for exam preparation and stress relief. It is particularly beneficial for students facing high-pressure situations, as it helps to restore energy, improve concentration, and balance emotions. It is a wonderful remedy for nervous exhaustion, when there is mental or physical weakness from overstudying.
Aethusa
The person may feel incapable, as if they cannot succeed. They can get to the point where they feel they simply cannot learn any more, making it hard to think clearly or concentrate.
Anacardium
For students who feel mentally blocked or overwhelmed, with low confidence in their abilities.
If you or a family member experiences exam-related stress or study-related symptoms, consider scheduling an appointment with a homeopath for personalised support.
Michael Farrelly, the author, is a homeopath with over twenty years of experience treating a wide range of ailments. He is based in Donabate, County Dublin, and can be contacted at (086) 159 6119 or via email at farrellym@hotmail.com.
By Declan Glynn
A new and improved version of the highly-commendable XPENG G6 has arrived, and it retains its signature fastback-coupé silhouette, while refining the front and rear styling. Key updates include an uninterrupted, full-width LED front light bar, a repositioned front logo, and a subtle “ducktail” spoiler added to the rear of the car.
With an overall length of 4.75m, width of 1.92m and height of 1.65m, the XPENG G6 strikes a perfect balance between road presence and outright practicality. The upgraded 15.6-inch central touchscreen controls vehicle functions, and it is complimented by a 10.25-inch digital driver information display behind the stylish multi-function steering wheel. Natural language processing enables seamless voice commands, and the system is compatible with over-the-air (OTA) updates for hassle-free tech upgrades. XPENG’s dedicated XPILOT ASSIST system is broken down into three areas of advanced driving assistance; XPILOT DRIVING, XPILOT PARKING, and XPILOT SAFETY, and includes intelligent features for everyday use.
The XPENG G6 comes with a choice of Standard Range or Long Range versions, both of which send power to the rear wheels, along with a Long Range Performance model with permanent all-wheel drive - a direct competitor to the new Tesla Model Y Performance. The LFP battery in the Standard Range model now has a capacity of 68.5 kWh (up from 66 kWh), which provides a WLTP range of up to 470 km, while the Long Range model now features an 80.8 kWh LFP battery that increases the WLTP range to 525 km. Thanks to 800V EV fast-charging architecture, and a charging capacity of up to 451 kW (Long Range model), you can charge the battery from 10-80% in just 12 minutes - perfect for fast-paced days and long road trips.
My review car was an XPENG G6 Standard Range model, which looked particularly striking in its Silver Frost metallic paintwork, with contrasting rear privacy glass, and stylish 20” alloy wheels with Michelin tyres. The electric motor produces 255bhp (251PS) and a hefty 440Nm of instant torque, providing the car with the ability to reach 100km/h from a standing start in just 6.9 seconds. The G6 delivers a smooth, refined ride quality on every journey, and drivers can choose between Eco, Standard and Sport drive modes, each of which offer distinct driving characteristics to suit individual driving style. A solid brake pedal feel ensures the car stops with a similar sense of urgency to which it accelerates, and the adjustable regenerative braking function sends energy back to the battery during deceleration to enhance driving range. The luxuriously-appointed and spacious cabin features ingenious door-release buttons that can be operated by a person’s thumb as they grip the door handle with their fingers, and all occupants enjoy impressive levels of head, leg and elbow room. In short, the refreshed XPENG G6 is now even better than its predecessor in every respect.
With pricing from just €42,000 (inclusive of VRT Relief & SEAI Grant), the new XPENG G6 represents outstanding value for money.
It’s Communion season and if you need some help preparing for the big day, we’ve got some great tips!
If you’re on a budget, charity shops, Mr Price and Vinted are brilliant for picking up Communion dresses and suits. Penneys and Dunnes Stores do chinos, shirts, braces and bowties for boys who don’t want to wear suits. Dunnes also has fabulous Communion dresses, shoes and accessories. And Penneys do wonderful, summery clothing for siblings.
In our family we have a tradition where we go Communion shopping with the Aunties and Nannies and they each buy something for the child. As well as making memories, having the others chip in is helpful financially for the parents!
At mams.ie we are huge advocates of buying Irish. One of our favourites for special occasion wear is MyKindOfDress.com They have a great website to buy online and a store at Unit 1 Fashion City in Ballymount, where you can try on dresses and no appointment needed! Another fab Irish retailer for special occasion wear is www.Dresses.ie I got this beautiful blush pink dress (pictured above) for a family occasion, for only €36.99! I got so many compliments on it and it’s wonderful to know you can buy such beautiful, reasonably priced dresses in Ireland - so no need to buy from some awful, cheap website on the other side of the world.
Mammies, if you can afford to treat yourself, it’s nice to get your hair and make-up done. We love Advanced Hair Design on Hampton St. They’re reasonably priced and super friendly. Tricia did my hair in the above pic for a family event and I loved it. Afterwards, I headed to Lynda at Neon Trees (also, very reasonably priced) for make-up and by the time they had both worked their magic, I felt relaxed and Glam! There are lots of photos taken on Communion day and having hair and make-up done professionally is a confidence boost.
For Communion celebrations, we love Bracken Court Hotel. They are genuinely family friendly and the food and service is great. Farnham Estate is stunning – the grounds are a great place to take Communion photos with family. It’s a nice place to escape for a May Bank Holiday break.
For more about Communions and all things parenting, go to www.mams.ie
By Jack Shanley
There is a specific kind of magic in seeing a film that belongs to the very streets you walked to get to the cinema. Returning to the Irish Film Institute (IFI) later in the year on October 19th for a special 35th-anniversary screening of Alan Parker’s The Commitments, it’s clear that this gritty, high-octane tribute to Northside soul hasn’t lost a beat of its pulse.
Watching it today, the film remains a masterclass in ensemble chemistry. Based on Roddy Doyle’s beloved novel, it follows Jimmy Rabbitte’s ambitious, if slightly delusional, quest to bring “the savior of soul” to Dublin. What makes The Commitments endure isn’t just the talent at display or the razor-sharp banter; it’s the authenticity. The Dublin captured here—grey, crumbling, and perpetually damp—is a far cry from the modern Dublin of today. Yet, the humor and the desperation feel timeless.
The film’s philosophy, famously summed up by Jimmy’s “black and proud” speech, remains one of the most quotable moments in Irish cinema. It captures that specific brand of working-class defiance that simply doesn’t age, even if the fashion and the payphones do.
The highlight of the evening will be the post-screening Q&A with Robert Arkins. While he played the ambitious manager Jimmy Rabbitte, Arkins is famously a gifted musician in his own right (he actually sang the demos for the film’s soundtrack). We’ll be able to hear Arkins speak about perhaps a fascinating “behind-the-curtain” look at the production, the intensive rehearsals, working under the late, great Alan Parker or even how the film has gone on to become a global Irish cinematic phenomenon that defined a generation.
In a digital age, The Commitments feels refreshingly analog. It’s a film about people actually making things—noise, mistakes, and history. Seeing it projected on the big screen again reminds you that the soundtrack isn’t just a collection of covers; it’s the heartbeat of the movie.
If you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to this Irish classic, this October screening is a rare chance to celebrate the “Hardest Working Band in Dublin” in the heart of the city that birthed them. It’s soulful, it’s loud, and 35 years later, it’s still absolute magic.
By Dave Kavanagh
Capital Acquisition Tax is the umbrella term for both inheritance and gift tax in Ireland. In 2024 in Ireland, there was over €850 million collected in Capital Acquisition Tax. It also includes estates that may have been taxed in previous generations. For example, if someone left an estate worth €1,000,000 to an only daughter, she would (in the current tax year) have a tax bill of just under €200,000. After she pays the bill and puts what’s left in the bank, any interest is taxed (DIRT). Guess what happens when she passes and leaves her estate behind? It’s taxed again! So what are the tax-free thresholds? Spouses can leave any amount to each other tax free. After that, the three thresholds are, a) Children - €400,000, b) Other close relatives - €40,000 and c) All others (including cohabiting partners) - €20,000. Everything received above these is taxed at 33%.
So, is there any way to prevent it? There are two main actions that can either reduce or eradicate such a tax bill. The first is to take the time to plan when making a will. Let’s say a value of €900,000 was being left to 2 adult children. (Not a big estate if you combine a house, savings and a life policy). This would create a tax bill of €33,000. Instead, if €800,000 of it was left to the 2 children and the balance between a few grandchildren (at least 5), there is no tax bill. The second thing that can be done is for the person leaving the estate to take out a Section 72 plan. This is a type of life policy that is allowed to pay any tax liability without adding to the value of the estate. It becomes particularly important for anybody that does not have children to avail of the €400k threshold, as even other relatives can only receive €40,000 before any balance is taxed. These thresholds are particularly important for anybody in the process of planning or making their will.
Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM, LMFM and TV3.
The various branches of the Taylor and Savage families have certainly left their mark on the retailing history of Swords. At one time, they had both a drapiery and a much-loved (and missed!) hardware shop on Main St. This latter shop began trading in 1984, continuing until it closed its doors in December 2008.
At its peak, it employed 12 staff, 8 full-time and 4 part-time. The ostensible reason given for its closure was high local rates, but widespread recession loomed in Ireland then, a challenging time for all local businesses.
Christy Russell, of that famous Lusk family was one person left jobless as a result. Christy, as we all know, has had many setbacks in his life, but he’s still a stalwart of the Lusk Pipe Band, with its many medals and achievements. Good on you Christy and on all the members of this illustrious band,
keeping the fine musical tradition of Fingal alive and thriving!
For couples trying to conceive, male fertility plays an equally important role as female fertility, yet it is often overlooked. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has addressed male reproductive health for thousands of years, and modern research is beginning to support what practitioners have long observed: Chinese medicine may offer meaningful support for men experiencing fertility challenges. TCM views male fertility as a reflection of overall health and energy balance. It emphasises “Kidney essence” – your body’s core life force that supports sperm production, stamina, and reproduction. When this essence, or energies such as Qi (vital energy) and Yin–Yang (cooling–warming balance), become imbalanced, it may contribute to low sperm count, reduced movement, or abnormal sperm shapes.
Acupuncture benefits
Very fine needles are placed at specific points, often around the lower back or abdomen, to help improve blood flow, reduce stress, and support hormone balance. Gentle warming with moxa (a burning herbal preparation held near the skin) can be used when additional warmth is needed. A short course of around 6–10 sessions is often used to support sperm quality, particularly where stress is thought to be a contributing factor. Vitamin support for wellbeing General wellbeing supplements can complement TCM by nourishing the body. Vitamin C (from citrus fruits or supplements) acts as an antioxidant and helps protect sperm from damage. Vitamin E (found in nuts or supplements) supports sperm membrane health. Zinc (in foods such as oysters and seeds) is important for testosterone and semen production, while folate (in leafy greens) supports healthy DNA. A daily multivitamin that includes these nutrients may help support energy and protect against oxidative stress. Always discuss supplements with your doctor, especially if you are on medication.
Hypnosis
Hypnosis uses guided relaxation and focused attention to help reduce stress and address subconscious blocks that may affect fertility. Sessions often include deep breathing and positive suggestions to support blood flow to the reproductive organs, reduce performance anxiety, and build confidence around conception. Listening to a 15–20 minute audio recording regularly can support a calmer mind and more positive outlook. Some men also report better emotional balance and improved communication with their partner when combining hypnosis with TCM.
Daily tips
Choose warm, cooked foods such as ginger, walnuts, and lamb. Limit very cold drinks and frequent raw salads, which in TCM are thought to weaken digestive energy. Reduce alcohol and avoid smoking. Practise gentle movement such as Qi Gong or walking to relieve stress. Prioritise regular, good-quality sleep to support recovery and hormone balance. TCM aims to address underlying imbalances rather than just symptoms, which is why many people use it as part of a longer-term approach to reproductive health and general wellness.
Male Fertility A complementary approach
Chinese medicine can work alongside conventional fertility treatments such as IVF or IUI, and many people use it as a complementary therapy. While it is not a guaranteed solution, it may offer a natural, generally low risk way to support male reproductive health and improve the overall chances of conception. Always consult a qualified TCM practitioner and also speak with your doctor or fertility specialist before starting any new treatment.
In Wellness Susan
susangrahamcoaching@gmail.com
With the kids off school, here are some ideas for fun days out. Malahide Castle & Gardens is hosting some fab events this Easter. They got a Wicked Easter and KPop Demon Hunters events. Plenty there to keep the kids happy and while they’re singing and dancing, it gives you a little time for a walk around the gorgeous grounds and a coffee in the fab café.
April is a funny month weather-wise, fluctuating between warm and chilly making it the perfect time for transitional clothing that works in changeable weather. We came across Irish brand, Circle Edge Athleisure Wear and it is perfect for this time of year. As well as cool hoodies and leggings - ideal for busy Mammies on the go - they also have stylish half-zip tops with matching wide leg trousers. And for underneath, a cool vest which can be worn two ways. Great design, comfortable fabrics and they do offers too, so you can nab the half-zip top, vest top and wide leg pants altogether in a set. They look super stylish, breathable and comfortable.
And to make sure you are as comfy as can be while running around after the kiddies, we are championing cool underwear brand Lemonade Dolls. A range of underwear for woman of all shapes and sizes, in soft yet supportive fabrics, in a beautiful selection of colours. Best of all, they’re underwire free. Finding a supportive bra that looks good, feels good, offers proper support and does not have underwire is not easy! An absolute hero product range in our opinion. See https://lemonadedolls.com/
As the weather changes, bugs and viruses thrive and it’s good to take nutrient packed supplements. We’re big fans of Irish brand Sentro Labs. As well as supplements for gut health, they have products to help with hormone balance and a Sleep support set, which we have been testing out and find great. See their range and value bundles here https://www.sentrolabs.com/
Skypark Carlingford is back open and is a brilliant day out for all the family. Zip wires, physical challenges and cool team building games, make it really fun to visit as a family or group of friends. I still brag about doing the biggest zip wire there – yes, I screamed the whole way through but I still did it! Enter our Skypark giveaway on mams.ie and our socials FB/Insta.
