Island’s herbs to go under microscope

A LONG-HELD belief that plants on a famous island in the Killarney Lakes may cure some ailments will be tested soon.

Herbs growing on Innisfallen, in Lough Lein, are to come under the microscope during a research project which will include a botanical survey. The plants would have been used by monks, according to local tradition.

The island has well-preserved monastic ruins and its history dates to the seventh century when St Finan founded a monastery there.