FOR hundreds – and probably thousands – of years, our ancestors relied on traditional medicine.

In a time when few people would have had access to any kind of professional healthcare, most would have turned to cures involving herbs and other readily-available ingredients.

These might have been prescribed by a local “wise woman”, or from a treasured book of family remedies handed down from generation to generation.

“Plants, Poultices and Persecution” is the title of a talk by folklorist and author Tracey Norman who will look at the history of such cures and how those who practiced them were regarded in their local communities.

It will be presented by the Crediton Area History and Museum Society (CAHMS) at the Boniface Centre in Crediton on Monday, March 11.

Doors open at 7.15pm and the talk will start at 7.30pm.

The cost is £2 for CAHMS members, £5 for non-members – prices include refreshments on arrival.