TIPS TO STAY HEALTHY AND BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

It has become very clear over the last few weeks that the Corona Virus COVID-19 affects people quite differently. We at Mulligans Pharmacy have seen this first hand. Some suffer very severe symptoms requiring hospitalisation, many exhibit common cold & flu symptoms which are very treatable while others are asymptomatic and have no symptoms at all.

This is, no doubt, a result of our immune systems responding differently to the onset of this virus. No one can say why two people who seem equally healthy, will be affected to such different degrees.

Ideally, if we all lived a stress free life, ate a balanced diet, engaged in regular exercise, got good quality sleep and avoided damaging pollutants from both the environment and smoking then we would hope that our immune systems would not be un-duly challenged and would be well prepared to defend against infections. Few of us however fall into this category.

Health Supplements are not a necessity if one has a balanced diet and many of them with the exception of Omega oils and Vitamin D are required to be taken only periodically. Moderation is the best approach in supplementation as it is with lifestyle and dipping in and out of vitamin and mineral supplements during key times throughout the year is the best practice.

What do immune boosters offer us right now?

As this is a new strain of virus that is still being analysed by the many virologists all over the world, it is difficult to categorically state that immune boosters will protect one against COVID-19. This is unchartered territory.

The best we can do, is hope that those immune boosters that are proven to help prevent and treat the flu every year will also be effective against this virus.

The following is a list of recommendations from Mulligans Pharmacy – all of which may be taken by healthy adults and children who have no complications.

If you are immuno-compromised, are on chemotherapy, immunotherapy, have had an organ or stem cell transplant, then you need to seek advice from our Pharmacists who are more than willing to help you or from your doctor before taking any supplements.

Which immune Boosters?

• Zinc – when taken as a lozenge, it is a powerful immune booster of the upper respiratory tract and effective against viral, bacterial and fungal infections. Zinc prevents viruses and bacteria from adhering to the throat, the windpipe and the upper part of the lungs.

We recommend Sona ZinC with vitamin C. Take one chewable tablet / lozenge once or twice daily to boost immunity.

• Vitamin D – the sunshine vitamin. Many of us are deficient in Vitamin D as we do not get enough sunshine throughout the year and sun protection creams which are vital to protect our skin against skin cancer reduce the capability of our bodies to manufacture Vitamin D during the summer months. Vitamin D is available in a variety of sprays and tablets and is vital for healthy immunity. It also protects against many diseases associated with the heart, bones, skin, thyroid, cancer and diabetes.
• Echinacea purpurea – very effective in preventing the common cold and many influenza viruses. Studies on five influenza viruses to date have shown that Echinaforce prevents viruses from adhering to the cell wall and thus entering the cell to replicate. Obviously this has not been studied for corona virus but if there is no reason why one cannot take Echinacea, then it is worth a try. We recommend A VOGEL Echinaforce Hot Drink, Echinaforce tincture or Echinaforce Tablets.
• Vitamin C – reduces the duration of colds and flu. There are many on the market available in both tablet and soluble form. The soluble drinks are generally higher strength and these are best taken over a period of a few hours to ensure maximum absorption. Vitamin C is also essential for collagen.
• Oxylent – this is an excellent multivitamin supplement which contains adequate Zinc, Vitamin C and Vitamin D in addition to B vitamins and other anti-oxidants. It is ideal for students and those with busy lifestyles. Because Oxylent also contains electrolytes it is excellent for athletes to maintain hydration.
• Immune boosting teas – these are not going to greatly boost the immune system but they do help to maintain hydration which is vital while fighting viral infection. They are also pleasant to taste and are soothing on the throat.

Try Yogi Immune Support Tea or Pukka Eldeberry & Echinacea Tea or Vitabiotics vitamin tea + immunity

 

Who can benefit from taking Immune Boosters?

• The elderly – fail to absorb many vital nutrients from their diet.
• Athletes, Sports & Gym users – Aggressive exercising negatively impacts on the immune system through the release of adrenaline and cortisol. Low levels of these are good for you (moderate exercise) but high levels reduce the ability of your immune cells called neutrophils to defend against invading micro-organisms.
• Stress – constant stress has a similar effect on the body as does aggressive exercising as it produces excessive amounts of adrenaline and cortisol.
• Smokers – are deficient in anti-oxidants which are vital to protect against cancer and infection.
• Cardiac, diabetic and asthmatic sufferers – Many who are on regular medication have the added disadvantage of vital nutrients being depleted as a side effect of their prescribed drugs.
• Post chemotherapy – the immune system is completely destroyed by all chemotherapy regimes so seek advice on what is best to take once your treatment is finished. This is different for everybody.
• Students – the brain requires extra calories and nutrients during demanding periods such as studying for exams. Taking a general multivitamin supplement helps to maintain a healthy immune system and hopefully prevent one from succumbing to throat infections and colds.
• Children – children may get up to 12 colds per year so it is always a good idea to give them a multivitamin supplement once every 2-3 months. For now, we recommend Sona Multiplus junior chewable as it has sufficient levels of both Zinc & Vitamin C.

It is also advisable to give children Vitamin D all year. This is not just beneficial for their immunity as it is required for many essential processes in the body.

We hope that some of this information will benefit you and your loved ones and keep you safe during these unusual times. You will find specific recommendations for the various categories mentioned on our website or call any of our stores for any further advice that you may require. Our Pharmacists and wellbeing advisors are more than willing to help.

So for now, stay safe, keep distancing, keep sanitising and keep exercising.

From all at Mulligans Pharmacy.

 

Summer Sunburn – What To Do

If you were on holidays or out in the sun all day, forgot to reapply sunscreen and now have a nasty sunburn, check out these key sunburn tips:

1.Get Out of The Sun

Sounds like a no-brainer, but it’s crucial – and something people too often don’t do. Some damage has already been done, so don’t harm the skin any more. Stay out of the sun until the burn fades completely.

2.Assess the Damage

Most sunburns aren’t severe enough to go to hospital. Even if a couple of small blisters pop up, it’s usually safe to treat the burn at home. If they develop blisters on more than 20 percent of their body, should seek medical attention immediately and head to the hospital if you feel nauseous, get intense chills or run a fever.

3.Take a Pain Reliever

For sunburns that they can treat on your own, over-the-counter painkillers can help. If the burn’s not so bad –- mainly their skin just feels a little tender -– take some ibuprofen as it acts an anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling and ease the pain.

4.Take a Cool Bath

It’s also important to cool the skin down gently, but skip the shower -– the continual blast of water on scorched skin will not feel good. Also skip the soap, which will dry skin out even more.

5.Apply Medicare Burn Gel
Apply a liberal amount of Burn Gel as it is a cooling agent and an anti-inflammatory. Alternatively, a Burn Dressing applied to the affected area will sooth the area & protect it from infection.

6.Apply an Aloe Vera Gel
When the damaged skin is healed and the inflammation had decreased, apply Aloe Vera Gel as it will nourish and moisturise the skin further.

7.Don’t Get Burned Twice!

Remember Sun Burn is a Burn!

Visit in-store or shop online for your sun care essentials and more.

www.mulliganspharmacy.com

Free home delivery on orders over €50 or order to your nearest store in Waterford, Tipperary or Kilkenny via Click&Collect.

What To Eat When Trying To Conceive – Conceive Plus

There is a huge amount of information out there recommending food to eat and avoid when pregnant but what about before you fall pregnant? Eating the right foods can boost your fertility and to keep your body healthy.

General Guidelines

In terms of general health, being extremely overweight or underweight can make your periods irregular, making it harder to conceive. It is advised to talk to your doctor about maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Focus on nutrition, lots of fruit and vegetables, complex carbohydrates and lean proteins, avoiding processed foods such as fast food and foods that are high in sugar and salt. All the good nutrients from a balanced diet will prevent insulin from disrupting your body’s hormone balance, which is essential for reproduction. You can consider taking a prenatal vitamin also to ensure you are getting the vitamins you need.

Calcium

Calcium is an essential nutrient for keeping your reproductive system healthy and for strengthening both your bones and the bones of your baby when you do conceive. You should aim to eat about two servings of dairy, such as milk, cheese, and yoghurt per day. These servings should be whole milk, rather than skim. Full fat milk can help to protect you from ovulatory infertility, while skim milk may actually hinder ovulation. If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, you can find calcium in many soy and tofu products.

Iron

Iron is very important to a regular menstrual cycle, which will help you to conceive. You can get enough iron by eating beef and other red meats, oatmeal, and leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and other greens. Leafy greens will also provide you with folic acid, which is essential for preventing birth defects.

Protein

Protein is important for a healthy body but not all proteins are created equal. Some studies have found that plant-based proteins are better for fertility than animal proteins. So maybe include beans, lentils, and quinoa in your diet. When you do opt for meat, choose lean options such as chicken, eggs, and lean cuts of beef and pork. And what about fish? Oily fish such as salmon and tuna provide powerful omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for a soon-to-be mom and growing baby. They also facilitate the flow of blood to the uterus. Just make sure that you avoid high-mercury fish such as swordfish and mackerel. Mercury can remain in your body for over a year, so it’s important to reduce your exposure to it as soon as you’re trying to conceive. If you’re not a fish fan, you can always opt for a fish oil supplement instead.

Conceive Plus is the only fertility-friendly lubricant that contains Calcium and Magnesium ions essential for the conception process. Conceive Plus can help you get pregnant, naturally. Shop in-store and online at Mulligans Pharmacy – home delivery and Click&Collect to your nearest store available. Shop Here: http://bit.ly/ConceivePlus

Top 5 Vitamins & Supplements For Exam Season

From Junior and Leaving Cert to college exams, exam season can be a stressful time! Sleep, exercise and eating well are hugely important for your body and mind to refuel and recover, it’s never too late to give yourself a boost with the help of vitamins and supplements.

Check out our top 5 products that we recommend to help you this exam season, all of which are available in-store and online at Mulligans Pharmacy:

 

1. Swedish Nutra Ultra+ Multivitamin

The Swedish Nutra Ultra Multivitamin drink keeps your energy level high while supporting and strengthening the whole body and mind.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/SwedishNutraUltra

 

2. Revive Active Mastermind

Containing no sugar and using a natural sweetener instead, Revive Active Mastermind  delivers key nutrients which contribute to brain and cognitive function, mental performance and nervous system function.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/ReviveMastermind

3. SOS Health RELAX Magnesium Oil Spray

Magnesium can be very beneficial during study/exam time. The SOS Relax Magnesium Oil Spray is highly absorbable which aids restful sleep and calming properties which reduces stress and anxiety. Other benefits includes reliving muscle tension and improves immune system and cells

Shop here: http://bit.ly/SOSHealth

 

4. Nordic Naturals Complete Omega 3.6.9.D Soft Gels

Nordic Naturals Complete Omega-3.6.9-D provides omega fatty acids together with added vitamin D3, which supports the immune system, heart health and hormonal balance. With the addition of vitamin D, it also regulates sleep cycle.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/Nordic_Naturals

 

5. BetterYou Boost B12 Oral Spray

The spray formula allows the product to be directly absorbed through the month into the bloodstream. BetterYou Boost B12 Oral Spray helps boost energy levels. This stimulant free oral spray contains natural B12 and green tea.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/BetterYouB12

 

More information around these products can be found on our website under product details. Free home delivery nationwide with online orders over €50 or avail of free Click&Collect to your nearest store in Waterford, Kilkenny and Clonmel.

Visit www.mulliganspharmacy.com

We wish you the best of luck with your exams!

COPD, Asthma and Bronchitis Sufferers Can Get Relief With Salt Therapy

For the past seven years Pharmacists have been offering a natural salt based Air Purifier called Salin Plus for those suffering with respiratory issues. They have found that it can help their customers manage conditions that include Asthma, COPD, Bronchitis, Cystic Fibrosis, Sinusitis, Rhinitis (Hayfever), Allergies, Snoring and Sleep Apnoea.

Laura Hogan, Pharmacist, Mulligans Pharmacy, Smithlands Centre, Kilkenny.

What is the Salin Plus Air Purifier?

It is a small device about the size of a kettle that you plug in each night and leave on while you sleep. The following morning you wake up feeling refreshed after having a great night’s sleep.

How Salt Therapy works

Salt therapy has been used since the mid 1800’s when a Polish physician observed that miners working in salt caves didn’t get the lung diseases common in other miners. The benefits of Salt Therapy can be attributed to its anti-inflammatory effects. Salin Plus Air Purifier uses Micro-crystalline salts that are fanned through the air to relieve breathing difficulties. Once inhaled, the microparticles of salt penetrate deep into the lungs which can help unblock and remove any build-up of mucus and foreign allergens.Laura Hogan, Pharmacist, Mulligans Pharmacy said, “Salt therapy is a drug free treatment and we are delighted to be able to offer this natural remedy to our customers to help relieve symptoms of respiratory problems. As it is 100% natural it is suitable for everybody including young children and pregnant mothers as it contains no steroids. Furthermore, this salt therapy can be used in the home which is a huge advantage, coupled with the fact that it is so easy to use – all you do is turn on the small machine, leave it in the bedroom and it works while you sleep, waking the next morning with less mucus blocking your airways and having had a great night’s sleep. We find it particularly good for those suffering from Asthma, COPD and Sinusitis.”

Works while you sleep

The Salin Plus Air Purifier works while you sleep there are no masks or tubes involved, making it very easy to use especially for children. Just plug in the small machine and leave it on overnight and it works while you sleep. Laura concluded by saying “At this time of year, anybody who suffers from hayfever or allergies can get relief from using the Salin Plus Air Purifier. And it is important to note that it is suitable in pregnancy especially for hayfever when other medications are contraindicated”.

Replace the Salin Plus Air Purifier Filter regularly

For best results it is recommend that you should change the filter of the Salin Plus Air Purifier every 4-6 months or it will not work as intended, that is to clear the airways and release phlegm, resulting in the patient being able to breathe more easily and having a great night’s sleep. Keep a note of the date you change the filter.

A great complement to medication

The pharmacies profiled in this article recommend that you should never go off your medication without speaking to your pharmacist or doctor. However they consider the Salin Plus Air Purifier to be a great complement to medication.

The Salin Plus Air Purifier is now available in-store in all Mulligans Pharmacies and online at www.mulliganspharmacy.com. Free home delivery on orders over €€50 or order to your nearest store in Waterford, Tipperary or Kilkenny via Click&Collect.

Click the link to purchase online at Mulligans Pharmacy: http://bit.ly/Salin_Plus

Mulligans Pharmacy Team, Smithlands Centre, Kilkenny are trained to discuss how Salin Plus natural salt therapy works for those with respiratory problems.

 

 

How Salin® Plus Air Purifier has helped these users

Asthma Relief

Ella from Dublin has suffered from Asthma since she was an infant and was on regular medication, i.e. inhalers and antibiotics, because of constant chest infections until Asthma was diagnosed. Her parents got a gift of the Salin Plus Air Purifier and after 2-3 weeks using Salin Plus Ella’s parents noticed that her night time cough had stopped and that she was having fewer issues with her asthma. They highly recommend this natural salt therapy to parents of children with Asthma.

Chest Infections

Rachel, mum of 4 year old Ethan said “My son got pneumonia when he was eight months old. We had countless trips to the hospital and doctors, every time more steroids, antibiotics and inhalers were recommended. I came across the Salin Plus Air Purifier salt therapy when Ethan was 3 years old and I was looking for something to help one of his many chest infections. I bought it in my local chemist and I leave it on in Ethan’s bedroom for the full night while he sleeps. His nose is not blocked up anymore and he doesn’t need his inhaler every day. I recommend this product to everyone I meet as every parent wants to help ease their child’s pain and this has worked for us.”

Sinusitis Relief

Adele said “I suffer from Sinusitis and have done for years until three years ago when I was given the loan of the Salin Plus Air Purifier by my brother who uses it to help manage his COPD. After just one night using the Salin Plus while I slept I found an improvement in my Sinus condition. We then purchased one for ourselves as my brother wanted his back. I have been using it ever since and I love it. It helps me manage my sinusitis and I would definitely recommend it to anybody who suffers from their sinuses”.

COPD

Mary O’Hara said, “I have been suffering with COPD and shortness of breath for the last few years and heard that the Salin Plus Air Purifier could help me. Since using the device I don’t suffer from the shortness of breath as much and my overall health is much better. I would highly recommend Salin® Plus Air Purifier for those with COPD”.

Be Head Lice Aware

Head Lice most commonly peaks in the month of September with children starting the new school year, however this is no longer the case. There has been many head lice outbreaks across schools in recent months so it is important to understand how to prevent and learn about the various treatments available.

It is most common in children between the ages of 4 -11 years old. Regardless of whether hair is clean or dirty, head lice will climb from head to head. Head Lice can easily spread through a classroom without anyone noticing until a few hours or days later! It is best to quickly remove the head lice and their eggs once your notice your child has caught them. Just be careful you don’t catch them yourself!

Top Head Lice Products Recommended By Mulligans Pharmacy

Nitty Gritty Nit Free Comb

This comb has 33 round tipped teeth which goes through the hair very easily and each one of the micro-spiral grooves gently removes anything that is attached to the hair such as lice, nits and even un-hatched live eggs.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/NittyGrittyComb

Vamousse Treatment Mousse and Shampoo Preventative

Use Vamousse Protective Shampoo as a daily solution to kill lice before they lay eggsm it can be used daily in place of your regular shampoo. For an active head lice infestation, use Vamousse Head Lice Treatment before using this shampoo.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/Vamousse 

Lyclear Sensitive Lotion for Head Lice

Head lice treatments can often leave your scalp feeling irritated, Lyclear have developed a new sensitive formula that leaves your scalp feeling pain free and less likely to become irritated. This powerful yet sensitive formula kills 100% of head lice and eggs after the first application.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/Mulligans_Lyclear

Kelkin Tea Tree Oil, Shampoo and Conditioner

Kelkin Tea Tree Oil contains a special anti-tangling ingredient to make hair easier to comb through – particularly important in protecting against head lice. Kelkin Tea Tree Shampoo combines the natural cleansing antibacterial properties of tea tree oil.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/Kelkin 

Unfortunately there are no easy ways to prevent head lice. Regular checks with a detection comb perhaps weekly or more if possible can help you control and make you aware of any new lice.

These products are available in-store and online at Mulligans Pharmacy.

Free delivery on online orders over €50 or free delivery to your nearest store in Waterford, Kilkenny or Clonmel via Click & Collect.

Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day March 31st

Whether it’s a last minute rush or you need a few ideas to help with your final decision, we have some gift inspiration for Mother’s Day.

Lancôme

Lancôme is the go to brand as it has products for all ages and skin types. From skincare to make up to fragrance, there is a huge amount of variety to choose from. Receive a complimentary Lancôme beauty gift when you purchase any 2 Lancôme products (one to be skincare). The beauty gift travel set includes many of our Lancôme favourites! This offer is available until Mother’s Day, March 31^st while stocks last. Available in our Barronstrand Street, City Square and SuperValue stores in Waterford and also O’Connell Street and Market Place Clonmel.

Clarins

We love this brand! Clarins has all the skincare and makeup necessities and is a fabulous present to receive. We have a range of skincare and make up sets available in-store and online. We also have amazing value fragrance sets.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/Mulligans_MothersDaySets

 Green Angel Gift Set

This natural skincare brand is a popular gift at Mulligan’s for both its high quality natural ingredients and its beautiful packaging. We have a Mother’s Day gift set available both in-store and online which includes a free Argon Oil.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/Mulligans_GreenAngel 

Holos Skincare

Holos Skincare is a luxurious plant based aromatherapy skincare produced in Co. Wexford by Niamh Hogan. The skincare brand improves skin health and helps prevent the signs of ageing. All products in the range are natural, handmade and vegan. For the month of March, receive a free 100ml Holos Skincare Facial Toner when you purchase any two Holos Skincare products.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/HolosSkin

Trilogy

We are very excited about the launch of the Trilogy skincare brand at Mulligans Pharmacy. We have 21 products now in stock including cult products, the Rosehip Oil and the Cleansing Balm. Trilogy is now available at our Dunmore Road and City Square stores and also on our website.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/Mulligans_Trilogy

Chloe Nomade Fragrance

Receive a free Chloe Nomade Pouch when you purchase a Chloe Nomade fragrance. Nomade Eau de Toilette is a new launch from Chloe, it is built on the vibrant sweetness of Litchi and the multi-faceted floral nuances of Freesia, which complement the character of oak moss and enhance the notes of this luminous fragrance.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/Mulligans_ChloeNomade

Mugler Refillables

The Mugler Fragrance Refillables are the perfect gift at €33, these refillables are travel size and which makes it the perfect handbag companion. We have three Mugler 15ml refillables to choose from in-store and online: Alien, Angel and Angel Muse.

Shop here: http://bit.ly/muglerminis

We have created a Mother’s Day Gift section on our website where you can browse more gift ideas. If you are visiting in-store and unsure about which gifts or products would be suitable, ask any of our expert staff who would be happy to give you their gift suggestions.

Our Favourite Irish Brands

As we approach Saint Patrick’s Day, Mulligans Pharmacy want to support and highlight some of Irish brands that we love and stock both in-store and online. As an Irish company, it is important to support local and also discover and learn about the amazing brands that Ireland has to offer. We have compiled a list of our favourite Irish brands including both established brands as well as new.

1. Holos Skincare

Holos Skincare is a luxurious plant based aromatherapy skincare produced nearby in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford by Niamh Hogan. Niamh is a holistic therapist and from her 15 years’ experience, she has created a skincare brand which improves skin health and helps prevent the signs of ageing. All products in the range are natural, handmade and vegan. For the month of March, receive a free 100ml Holos Skincare Facial Toner when you purchase any two Holos Skincare products.

Shop here: https://mulliganspharmacy.com/Find-Product/holos

2. Spotlight Teeth Whitening

Launched in 2016, this Irish teeth whitening brand has established itself as a safe and effective way to whiten teeth from your own home. Based in Galway, dentists Dr. Lisa and Vanessa Creaven created the whitening strips and have recently added to the range. New products include whitening toothpaste, a whitening pen and a white teeth wash. We currently have an amazing value gift set on our website.

Shop here: https://mulliganspharmacy.com/Find-Product/spotlight

3. Tan Organic

Created by Noelle O’Conner, TanOrganic is an Irish self-tanning brand which is for all skin types, even sensitive skin. This brand has craved itself into the market as natural and organic tanning brand which is rich in Aloe Vera to ensure a natural fade, unlike traditional water based tans. Another highlight is that TanOrganic is the only eco-certified self-tanning brand in the world! We have tried this tan and are huge fans as it is odour free and easy to apply!

Shop here: https://mulliganspharmacy.com/Find-Product/tan_organic 

4. Green Angel

Founded in 2016 by Chris and Mary Mitchell, Green Angel is a natural skincare brand which incorporates the powerful benefits of seaweed which is packed with minerals, oils and vitamins. This unique brand prides itself for its high quality raw products, sourcing the seaweed in the West of Ireland. We have an extensive range of Green Angel in-store and online including creams and hair products. For the month of March, we have a gift set available both in-store and online which includes a free Argon Oil.

Shop here: https://mulliganspharmacy.com/Find-Product/green_angel

5. Kennedy & Co.

This new range by Darren Kennedy is one of our most popular men’s skincare brands at the moment, even the ladies are using the Purifying Peat Face Scrub. Having only launched pre-Christmas, the brand has gone from strength to strength. The collection includes 5 products which are essentials for male grooming. The Kennedy & Co range is currently 25% off in-store and online at Mulligans Pharmacy.

Shop here: https://mulliganspharmacy.com/Find-Product/kennedy_and_co

6. Pestle & Mortar

The Pestle & Mortar skincare brand was founded by Sonia Deasy in Co. Kildare. The aim was to create a no fuss skincare brand for women and over the recent years, it has built up a huge amount of awards and has become a star product recommended by skincare experts. The packaging is just as beautiful as the products. The company is well known for its pure hyaluronic serum.  This product is a fragrance free smooth concentrate which targets fine lines, dehydration and creates a healthy glow.

Shop here: https://mulliganspharmacy.com/Find-Product/pestle

7. Celtic Wind Crops

Founded in 2012 by Joe Gavin and Paul McCourt, Celtic Wind Crops produce a range of products which include hemp oil. Their signature product is their CBD Multi-Complex Hemp Oil which is the only 100% natural whole plant CBD multi-complex hemp oil produced in Ireland. The company operates in a ‘seed to shelf’ approach which allows full traceability. All raw products are grown in Co. Louth. Celtic Wind is a member of the EIHA which confirms its legitimacy with all the relevant government and industry regulatory bodies both locally and internationally and are the leading provider CBD products in the market.

Shop here: https://mulliganspharmacy.com/Find-Product/celtic_wind

Have you tried any of these amazing Irish brands yet? Let us know!

All of the products mentioned above are available in-store and online at Mulligans Pharmacy. Avail of free delivery on online orders over €50, free delivery to your nearest store in Waterford, Kilkenny or Clonmel via Click & Collect, and earn and redeem points in-store and online as part of the Mulligans Blue Club!

Conceive Plus: The Success Stories

• Used it with an ovulation tracking app after trying to conceive for a year and worked for my husband and I! Blessed to say we are 19 weeks pregnant with our baby!, Shanitra Cheff, Facebook, November 2017

• I was trying since February with no luck but started using the product in August and was pregnant the same month. I am due in May next year, Nini Myers, Facebook, November 2017

• My husband and I tried for 10 months to get pregnant. I bought this product as a desperate attempt. We used it once. I am now pregnant with our first baby. Coincidence or not, I don’t know, but I’m grateful just in case, Amazon Verified Review, November 2017

• The best through God and with this I’m 26 1/2 weeks… After trying for a year I used this and was pregnant after around 5 applications, Erianna Mack, Facebook, November 2017

• 100% recommend the conceive plus lubricant! Definitely think thats what worked for us to conceive our baby girl! 💖, Keeley L. Cattell, Facebook, November 2017

• Well it worked!! Glad I purchased this!! Used all 3 tubes during most fertile days and on my ovulation day and it worked! I’m now 7+1. Highly recommend, Sarah, Amazon Verified Review, November 2017

• I am in love with this product! for the past 9 years of trying to conceive with no luck. I decided to try this one. Within less than a year I was able to have my first daughter. I am not 100 percent that this helped me out but this was the only thing I tried and now I have one beautiful healthy baby girl born on June 2016. My husband really wanted another one so here we go again trying use the same thing this time took us a year to conceive. So with my opinion if you want to conceive give this a try. You just might never know. Good Luck!, Amazon Verified Review, November 2017

• Worked for me! Tried for two years without anything, nothing worked, til i came across this, got pregnant within the first month of trying with it😍, Ameri Shae, Facebook, November 2017

• We had been trying for over 2 years and had just been referred for IVF got pregnant first month using this just wish I’d tried it sooner, Georgie, Amazon Verified Review, November 2017

Ask The Pharmacist: My Breastfeeding Journey

As part of World Breastfeeding Week, our Supervising Pharmacist in our Tesco Ballybeg store shares her experience of breastfeeding with her baby.

Read Nicola’s story below and call in to any of our pharmacies to learn more about breastfeeding!

Breastfeeding is the best start you can give your baby and as soon as I found out I was pregnant I knew I wanted to try to breastfeed. I attended a breastfeeding evening and read as much information as I could to help prepare me for the journey. I had my little boy by C-Section and the midwife put the baby on my chest to initiate skin-to-skin contact. As I was in a bit of pain the midwife positioned the baby to my chest for the first feed. Over the next few days I was able to latch the baby on myself and with each feed my confidence grew. On the third night the baby cluster fed most of the night and although I was very tired it was a positive experience as the next morning my milk came in (day 4).

The next two weeks were tough and I struggled with engorgement and cracked bleeding nipples due to a bad latch. I immediatley sought the help of a lactation consultant and she really helped me to perfect the latch and reassured me that things would get easier at a time when I was thinking of giving up. Within a few days things did get eaiser and I’m so glad that I persisted through those tough few days.

I knew breastfeeding had nutritional benefits but I never could have imagined the emotional connection and bond that this would bring to us. Looking back I am so happy I persisted through those initial few weeks and sought help when I needed it. A breastfeeding journey I thought might only last a few days/weeks ended up lasting 3 years.

 

 

Ask The Pharmacist: The Benefits of Breastfeeding

To mark World Breastfeeding Week, we want to share some tips, advice and benefits of breastfeeding your newborn baby.

The Department of Health and Children, in line with the World Health Organisation, recommend that babies should be exclusively breastfed for six months (not introducing any other food or drink). Mothers are also being encouraged to continue breastfeeding after that, in combination with complementary foods up until the age of two years as the longer you breastfeed the greater the health protection for both you and your baby.

Breastfeeding may be one of the most natural things in the word, but it is a skill that you and your baby devleop over the first few days and weeks. With the right help , support and information most mothers can start breastfeeding and continue for as long as they want to.

Breastfeeding – Why breastfeeding is so special?

• Breast milk is an ideal blend of nutrients which provide everything a young baby needs for healthy growth and development. It is also very easy for a baby to digest.
• Breast milk, unlike other baby milks, contains antibodies which help protect babies against infections such as coughs, colds, chest infections and tummy upsets.
• Breastfeeding lowers your baby’s risk for having asthma or allergies.
• Breastfeeding reduces the risk of childhood obesity.
• Breastfeeding helps build a special bond between a mother and her baby.
• Breast milk is available at all times, and is free.
• Breast milk is hygienic because, unlike other baby milks, breast milk does not have to be prepared using special equipment which can so easily be contaminated by germs.
• Breastfeeding helps you to return to your normal weight after delivery by using up the fat stored in pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding lowers your risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
• Breast milk is environmentally friendly – it is a truly natural resource.
• While breastfeeding hormones are released into the mother’s blood which make her feel relaxed and content.

Getting Started:

Skin-to-skin contact with your baby in the first hour after birth will help get the first feed off to a good start. To help position your baby for feeding, with one hand cup your breast and gently stroke your baby’s lower lip with your nipple. Your baby will instinctively open its mouth wide. Supporting the baby’s neck, bring your baby’s mouth closer around your nipple, trying to center your nipple in the baby’s mouth above the tongue. The baby should have all of your nipple and most of the areola (darker skin around your nipple) in its mouth. You may feel a slight tingling or tugging but breastfeeding should not be painful. Ensuring you have a good latch helps prevent sore nipples. If you are having trouble in getting your baby to latch correctly or find breastfeeding painful be sure to contact a lactation consultant who can help and advise you.

• Be patient while your milk comes in. Colostrum is a nutrient-rich, syrupy, pre-milk that your baby needs in its first few days of life. After two to three days your body will then typically begin to start producing milk; however it can take longer for some mums.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Try to rest where possible especially in the first few weeks
• Seek help from a lactation consultant if you are having trouble.
• Try not to worry about your supply as long as your baby is having at least 5-6 wet nappies per day your supply should be fine.

Five More Tips For Breast Feeding Mums

To mark World Breastfeeding Week, we wanted to share tips and more on the benefits of breastfeeding your newborn.

To help reduce stress and worry, we want to share five more tips that we think will help make your breast feeding experience a positive one.

1.Tend To Tender Nipples

Nipples are already a sensitive area for most women, and after three hours of non-stop nursing, nipples can feel painful. While pain can be due to a bad latch in the beginning, it can just as likely that you need to give it time to get used to nursing.

2.Stay Hydrated

It takes a lot of water to make milk. Until your body begins to regulate and figure out exactly what it’s doing, you’re going to need to stay hydrated. A nice reusable water bottle should be on every mum-to-be’s baby ‘must have’ list.

3.Work With Nipple Shields

Many women with flat or inverted nipples are often told they will never be able to successfully breastfeed. While it may be more difficult at first, it is definitely not impossible. Nipple shields are fitted covers that help stimulate the baby’s sucking reflex. Over time breast tissue will adjust and release an inverted nipple.

4.Discuss Breastfeeding Expectations With Your Partner

No matter how prepared you are, or how dedicated you are to breastfeeding, there will come a time when you want to stop. Before your baby is born, discuss your desire to breastfeed with your partner. Express all the emotions you have surrounding the experience and be sure that they fully support your decision.