In search of natural, organic, healing products, Angela Karaitiana spent three years studying natural medicine, learning about the importance of what you put on your skin and the effect it has on your whole body. She launched Stewart Island Botanicals to provide others with the benefits of using wholly natural products, free of synthetics and chemical nasties. Their beautiful balms and skincare products are all handmade on Stewart Island/Rakiura from organic, homegrown and locally sourced ingredients. They take pride in how they make their products and the ingredients they use, ensuring they are beneficial and healing for body and soul. Here Angela talks to The Natural Parent Magazine about the passion behind her business, the challenges she has overcome along the way, and her hopes and dreams for the future.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
I was finding it hard to find products that were natural and organic, which also contained the right combination of healing ingredients. I spent three years studying natural medicine to gain a thorough understanding of how what you applied to your skin (being the biggest organ in the body) affected the rest of the body.
I believe it essential to offer people the option and benefits of using wholly natural products – free of synthetics and chemical nasties. Stewart Island Botanicals balms and skincare products are natural skin-healing products chocka block with all the goodness that comes compliments of mother nature.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
It all started with a fisherman on Stewart Island needing something to help with salt-water boils. Then another person asked for something for eczema and psoriasis, someone for a fungal skin infection, another wanting a balm for their baby, and it just snowballed from there. One thing led to another. All our products are a result of someone needing help with a skin issue.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
I’m still waiting for my big breakthrough.
