Athlone Court has a new aromatic resident. Stocked with hand-crafted bath bombs, soaps, shampoos, diffusers, and more, Oak Bay Botanicals holds a natural remedy for all its customers. For those interested in a favourite scent or a specific therapeutic solution, the store creates custom products on the spot.
Owners Heather and Richard Stewart moved from Ontario nine years ago to enjoy the mild weather of Victoria and to take advantage of the region’s proximity to the ocean and plentiful hiking trails.
Heather and Richard began making medical ointments from home several years ago and decided this spring to make the move to their physical location at Athlone Court, bringing plant-based healthcare to the Oak Bay community.
Heather, a registered nurse, said remedies made with essential oils are an alternative to prescription medications which can be costly, ineffective, or have strong side-effects.
“We make it on the spot. It’s custom-made depending what scent you like, or the therapeutic properties of the different oils,” she said.
The interactive nature of the store is what sets Oak Bay Botanicals apart from other essential oils and natural remedies stores.
“Rather than just coming and picking up something off the shelf, we find out if [our customers] have any needs.”
They can talk to the registered nurse and figure out if we can help them,” Richard said. Both often follow up with their customers to ensure the solution works for them. They frequently deal with autoimmune disorders, but their products can help in plenty of different areas.
“Lavender is very relaxing. It can help with stress and sleep. Things like peppermint can help with mental acuity, they can make you feel invigorated and more alert,” Richard said. “Whether it’s in a bath you’re having this or in a diffuser, you’ll get that same sensation.”
Visit Oak Bay Botanicals on the main floor of Athlone Court, 2187 Oak Bay Avenue.