Local brand Fijn Botanicals bottles Cape fynbos in its ethical body care, and Kate Walker’s hands are so very grateful.
While perusing an artisanal goods and green grocer store in the charming town of Montagu, I came across a range of beautifully bottled creams and oils. Not aware of the turn my life was about to take, I casually decided to replenish my decrepit-looking hands with one of the tester bottles on display. It was an instant conversion. From then on, I worshipped at the temple of Fijn Botanicals.
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On that fateful day, I had sampled the local brand’s Fynbos Body Lotion. Usually, I veer away from plant-heavy creams because I don’t dig smelling like granny’s potpourri-scented draws. While it contains oils of lavender, rose geranium, buchu and other fragrant blommetjies, the lotion’s scent is subtle and refreshing – no lingering notes of toilet spray.
I couldn’t stop smelling my hands. Every whiff sent a little signal to my brain to vibe out and maybe take up Bhuddism. Not only is the smell addictive, but the texture is just right. It has an olive oil base, although, thanks to some kind of hocus pocus, it leaves a non-oily finish. This is a game-changer if, like me, you struggle with the daily dilemma of whether to moisturise or not to moisturise, dreading the curse of slippery seal fingers.
Now, my hands are worthy of knighthood. They are silky, scented and sanitary – because the indigenous plants bring natural antibacterial and antiviral properties to the mix. Obviously, before I left Montagu, I was the proud owner of three big bottles of the magical lotion, but not before thoroughly mapping where in Cape Town I could buy more. I was thrilled to discover the HogHouse Bakery and Cafe, a mere 850 metres from my office, stocked a range. What can I say? We were meant to be!
Fijn Botanicals boasts a home that epitomises pastoral charm. Kogman and Keisie Organic Farm sits pretty at the base of the Langeberg Mountains in Montagu. The place is cinematic. I could compare it to a South African version of the closing scene of Pride and Prejudice – the one with Keira Knightly. For those who are not familiar, it’s all meadows at dawn, tweeting birdies, soft mist and a quiet but rousing piano solo.
Here, Liana and Petrus Jansen live the idyllic life that most city slickers secretly froth over. It all began with the guest farm, made up of a six-sleeper guest cottage and a ten-sleeper guesthouse on the property. Ardent environmentalists, the couple repurposes grey water from the guesthouse for the surrounding gardens. Fijn Botanicals was born out of their commitment to making that grey water harmless to the soil and environment.
Using plant-derived ingredients and fynbos essential oils, Liana originally formulated a range of skincare products for guests to use while visiting. But it has since expanded into a line of sustainable and ethical body and home products sold countrywide.
Here comes my big pitch. If you want luscious, content skin cells while simultaneously contributing to the welfare of the environment, Fijn Botanicals is for you. If you can’t find a nearby stockist, order from their website. You’ll find the complete collection, from the body oils, creams and serums to the haircare, scents, soaks and balms. All their packaging is recyclable and reusable and can be refilled.
Details:
- Location: Fijn Botanicals Shop at Kogman and Keisie Guest Farm, 2 Kloof Street, Montagu, 6720
- Contact: 082 776 4645
- Online: fijnbotanicals.com | @fijnbotanicals
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Picture: Supplied