How Herbalist Adriana Ayales Founded Anima Mundi Apothecary

Some days I leave my apartment in New York City by 5 A.M. and head to either my work kitchen in Long Island or my store in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and make my tonics. I then work on the computer for eight hours straight. On other days, we mix teas, customize formulas, work on private labeling, and bottle the elixirs. The recipe room is so exciting! We have over 200 herbs imported from Costa Rica, India, China, and the Midwest and everything is 100 percent organic. Then I'll eat, go home, do yoga, and drink more tea. I become a zombie if I don't get a yoga session in. It's essential. The more you can expand your core, the better you can absorb plant nutrients.

What's your typical workday beauty regimen?

I always wear natural oils on my face. I love making my own calendula oil with added ingredients like turmeric root and turmeric flower. Turmeric flower can be hard to find but when infused with other ingredients, like jojoba or Damascus rose oil, it's incredibly antioxidative and anti-inflammatory. After work, I also always soak in a hot bath. [Try Anima Mundi Apothecary Soul Salts, $24, animamundiherbals.com, for your own pampering session.]

What's your favorite part of your job?

I would say making recipes for different people and seeing their results. Witnessing the magic of medicine is truly amazing. I've seen people with everything from weight issues to migraines experience amazing results with some of our products.

Do you rely on your family to help you develop new products?

Not quite. I more so rely on my family to serve as guinea pigs! I give them the formulas and fun things to play with and they're always on board. Teas and tonics are still a big part of their daily lives at home.

Any final words for Latinas looking to make it in the beauty industry?

Discussing our special rituals is a way to share our [Latin] culture with the community. That's how I started. Sure, many Latinas already know the information because our mothers and grandmothers practiced these traditions, but sharing them is magical and helps keep the wisdom alive.

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