Rhyl nature reserve event shows health benefits of plants

The event, organised by Denbighshire County Council's Countryside Service alongside Nature for Health, aimed to promote the physical and mental well-being benefits of outdoor activities.

Nature for Health is a collaborative project that works with individuals and communities to emphasise the positive impact of nature on health and wellbeing.

The event aimed to help people enjoy the outdoors for physical and mental well-being (Image: Supplied)

Leah Apostolou from Living Wild guided the group around Bruton Park nature reserve, to learn how to forage plants and fruit at the site that can benefit their health.

While exploring the site's paths, the group learned about the health benefits of fruits such as blackberries, apples, and sloe berries, which can be used to ferment a 'natural health drink'.

They also discovered that rosehip, hawthorn berries, and pinecones can be used to make fire cider.

The group then created their own fire cider drink by mixing their chosen ingredients with apple cider vinegar.

The group created their own fire cider drink (Image: Supplied)

Denbighshire Countryside ranger, Sasha Taylor, who accompanied the group, said: "It was amazing to see how many edible fruits and flowers the site supports.

"Leah’s knowledge meant that we were also able to identify and collect previously overlooked plant species and components which provide a whole host of health benefits.

"This included the roots of the wood avens plant which boast anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent and diaphoretic properties.

"The foraged materials were then used to make individual fire cider tonics tailored to each person's preferred benefits.

"Tonics such as these can be an excellent alternative to standard vitamin tablets as they contain a host of synergistic substances which can help the body to absorb and process vitamins more effectively."

Councillor Barry Mellor, lead member for environment and transport and biodiversity champion, said: "Getting outdoors and experiencing our fantastic environments across the county is so important for helping physical and mental health.

"We are grateful for Nature for Health for providing this fantastic opportunity for learning more about the plants all around us in these important areas for nature and local communities."