26. Physicians of Myddfai
Half a day's walk due east of here is the hamlet of Myddfai. This was the centre of a network of legendary Welsh physicians who, between the 14th and 19th centuries, were renowned across Europe for their knowledge of herbal plants. The stone barn on the edge of Millennium Square houses a permanent exhibition which tells the story of these Physicians of Myddfai, and shows how plants have been used for centuries to treat illnesses across the world.
Alongside the Physicians of Myddfai exhibition is the Apothecaries Hall, a late nineteenth century pharmacy where most medicines were made from plant materials and extracts. Before we had a National Health Service or doctor's surgeries, most people would go to an apothecary to get their medicine. He or she would listen to their symptoms then make up an herbal remedy to treat them. The pharmacy here has all the authentic fittings of the time and was generously donated by the Thomas family of Holyhead, and pharmacists throughout Great Britain.
This whole display, together with the adjacent Apothecaries Garden, reflects the Garden's commitment to furthering the study of plants and their uses.
Alongside the Physicians of Myddfai exhibition is the Apothecaries Hall, a late nineteenth century pharmacy where most medicines were made from plant materials and extracts. Before we had a National Health Service or doctor's surgeries, most people would go to an apothecary to get their medicine. He or she would listen to their symptoms then make up an herbal remedy to treat them. The pharmacy here has all the authentic fittings of the time and was generously donated by the Thomas family of Holyhead, and pharmacists throughout Great Britain.
