Behind the Name Wadadli Apothecary

Behind the Name Wadadli

What's in a name?

Shakespeare posed this question in Romeo and Juliet, and it is something I have often wondered myself: What is in a name? When thinking through names for my skincare line, I wanted to make sure the name reflected the essence of what I do. I circled through dozens of names, but I was always led back to Wadadli.

Who is Wadadli?

Wadadli is the Indigenous name of Antigua, a small leeward island in the Caribbean. This name has always reminded me of home—the home of my family, our ancestors, and the community they were a part of. It represents culture and a connection to the land of my ancestors and the knowledge they left behind.

Being led by ancestral wisdom

As a child, I would watch as my grandparents worked with herbs. There were some herbs that they grew in their backyard and others that my grandfather would forage for, even in the bustling city. I watched in fascination as he knew which plants to pick and which parts to use. How did he know?

Now that I'm older, I realize that his knowledge was gained in the same way I gained mine – through observation, practice, and stories passed down. Just as I observed him, he observed his parents and grandparents working with herbs and plants, and I am grateful for that wisdom that is now the fabric of how I formulate my skincare.

Whenever I am formulating a product, I think back to how my grandparents would use the plants to help with bodily ailments. Each herb, plant, and oil they used was chosen for the properties best suited for the issue, even without them knowing the specific benefits that would be revealed years later.

Inspired by my grandparent's mindfulness, I consider how my products affect people and the planet. Each ingredient I use is non-toxic and safe for people and the planet. In this way, I am honoring not only a healthy body but a healthy planet and our place here.

Wadadli Apothecary

Wadadli Apothecary is more than skincare. It is about connection to ancestral wisdom through the healing power of nature. Through each product, I hope to inspire you to rediscover the beauty in nature and our connection to its incredible ecosystem.

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