Laymen have been dispensing herbal medicines since the first human fell sick (Laymen should not dispense herbal medicines, by Mr Francis Cheng, June 9; and Impasse over running a community garden; June 7).

The issue the users of the Jurong West community garden faces is one of risk-taking.

The residents' committee did not want to be held liable if the gardener's actions led to untoward consequences.

But its action stifles community initiatives.

To satisfy everyone, perhaps a notice can be put up in the garden - a warning that consumption of plants taken from the garden is at one's own risk.

In this way, community spirit can prevail.

Thomas Lee Hock Seng (Dr)