Health store help
Independent health store advice on eco-friendly household solutions
Looking for advice on natural health and wellbeing? Your local independent health stores can offer a wealth of knowledge and expertise. This issue we speak to Ingrid McCann and Janette Lambe from Bee Healthy in Monaghan
Bee Healthy is our little haven in the centre of Monaghan town where wellbeing meets environmental consciousness. Our dedication to continued learning is something we take pride in, as it allows us to impart valuable knowledge to our customers.
Our ethos extends beyond human health; it encompasses our interconnectedness with the natural world, the animal kingdom, and the delicate eco-system. By thoughtfully sourcing products, we prioritise organic ingredients that are free from unnecessary binders and fillers. The choice of organic and vegan supplements reflects our commitment to Mother Earth and our stance against cruelty to animals.
The deliberate choice of wooden shelving over metal or plastic reflects our sustainable mindset. Not only is wood more environmentally friendly, but it also fills the shop with its rich, earthy scent – something our customers regularly comment on!
Something we have observed is how people have grown so accustomed to the powerful fragrances of synthetic laundry detergents, soaps, air fresheners, candles, washing up liquids and cosmetics. This isn't surprising, considering that our sense of smell is a remarkable gift – it can uplift, relax, refresh or invigorate us. However, there exists a misconception that natural cleaning products lack the same olfactory impact as their chemical counterparts.
Let's dispel that notion!
Our customers frequently express delight at the pleasant scents that permeate our shop. This delightful smell experience is all thanks to the marriage of the scent of timber with the array of natural products gracing our shelves.
From natural cosmetics and household cleaning items to essential oils and the sweet aroma of our extensive dried fruit section, our shop exudes a wholesome fragrance. We're proud to offer a wide range of soy wax candles scented with essential oils and an assortment of natural incense. These are perfect examples of how you can make your home smell delightful without compromising your health or the environment.
For our shop's cleaning needs, we keep it simple yet effective. A basic combination of vinegar and frankincense essential oil does wonders for cleaning the shop floor, toilet and countertops. Pure and eco-friendly!
Our commitment to an eco-friendly lifestyle extends beyond cleaning products and cosmetics however. We encourage our customers to maintain clean homes by keeping their food wholesome too. Natural living goes hand in hand with natural eating. It warms our hearts to see more and more people seeking ingredients for home baking.
This shift toward self-reliance suggests that we're gradually reducing our reliance on others and our negative impact on the planet. As we become more self-sufficient, we contribute to a healthier Earth.
Together, let's nurture our well-being while treading lightly on the Earth.
Who's who and what's what at Bee Healthy in Monaghan
Bee Healthy was opened by owner Ingrid McCann in December 2020. Since then this small shop has gone from strength to strength. It has evolved into a community hub and is a vibrant place where locals gather and get good natural health advice from staff who are all qualified practitioners.
“We get lots of people coming in looking for advice,” says Janette Lambe. “As qualified practitioners, our team of two herbalists and a homeopath embodies a commitment to holistic health. I give talks around the community and make up herbal tea blends which we sell in the shop. Ingrid has a homeopathic dispensary where customers can get a remedy made up for them on the shop floor. Margaret gives lectures and offers foraging walks to anyone interested in wild-crafting food from nature.
“Our shop is located on the busiest shopping street in Monaghan and is the town's only independent health food shop. We were recently shortlisted for best small business in the Monaghan Town Business Awards.
“We sell everything – a full range of supplements, dried foods, cleaning products, cosmetics and herbal teas. We sell incense, sage sticks and scented candles, and this attracts loads of teenagers.
“We have a very broad and diverse customer base, from mums who come in with their kids to men taking an interest in their health too.
“We endeavour to ensure a steady supply of home-baking essentials like organic flour, baking soda, nuts, and seeds – all the building blocks for creating your own wholesome groceries. So whether you're kneading bread, blending nut butter, or experimenting with homemade granola, Bee Healthy supports your journey toward self-sufficiency.
“Our shelves are stocked with practical tools for self-reliance. We offer recipe books that guide you through making your own cheese from scratch, brewing herbal teas and creating nourishing meals from simple and sustainable ingredients.
“Our nut milk bags cater to plant-based milk enthusiasts who prefer crafting their own creamy blends at home. We also encourage people to grow their own food. We have a range of books on food growing for the Irish climate.”
VISIT: 88 Glaslough, Monaghan
SPEAK TO: Owner manager Ingrid McCann and staff members Janette Lambe, Margaret Palmer. Charlotte Batsaikhan part-time, trained in homeopathy
PHONE: 047 83634
OPEN: Mon-Fri 9.15am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm
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