Holistic health care, naturopathic consults in a well appointed, comfortable clinic, herbal medicine, teas and essential oil blends made to order, and in-home postpartum care – that sounds like some positive alchemy right there! And that is what Jayne Craig of Alchemy Clinic has to offer. We spoke to Jayne to learn more about how she got started.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
I was originally an early childhood teacher, but I left teaching to start a family. It was because of my children that I became passionate about holistic health and natural medicine. As my children got older, I started studying, first aromascience, then permaculture design (so I could learn to grow food and medicinal plants sustainably) and then naturopathy and herbal medicine.
The Launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
My business is fairly new. As soon as I finished studying and gained my qualifications, I opened my holistic health clinic. My clinic is home-based, so it is a warm, welcoming space. Clients can also see the medicinal herbs and plants I use growing in the surrounding gardens.
My business has evolved so much even in the short amount of time my clinic has been open. Firstly it was just naturopathic consults, and now I am also combining my skills and passion for naturopathy and early childhood by offering Naturopathic Nurturing packages for new mothers, where I come into new mum’s homes to give support and provide them with tailor-made teas, aromatherapy products, herbal medicines, etc. The transition into motherhood is such a special time, it truly is an honour to be able to be part of making a new mama feel supported and nurtured in this new phase of her life.
The transition into motherhood is such a special time, it truly is an honour to be able to be part of making a new mama feel supported and nurtured in this new phase of her life.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
Learning to put myself out there and network or give talks to small groups. As a naturally shy person this has been a huge learning curve for me! Also realising what my ideal client market was. At first I wanted to help EVERYONE, but now I realise my passion lies with clients who are mothers and their unique health concerns.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
I’m a mum with four kids, so I only work in clinic during school hours. I try and do all my research and paperwork in the evenings so that I can spend afternoons and weekends focusing on the kids and their needs. We also have a lot of pets and a large garden, which all of the kids enjoy helping me with, and that’s another way we bond as a family. My kids also like to help me make up skin products or teas for them when they need them. It’s a great way to blend work and family, and get them interested in herbal medicine.
