Build your Natural Medicine Chest in Heinen’s Apothecary
The following article was written by Heinen’s partner Elaine T. Cicora.
Essential oils, herbal teas, arnica, mushrooms, and CBD: Whether you’re deeply committed to holistic health or just beginning your wellness journey, Heinen’s Apothecary is committed to meeting your needs.
Apothecary 101
In a society full of pharmacies, the term “apothecary” may feel unfamiliar, but the truth is, apothecaries are the ancient predecessor of modern day pharmacies.
The history of the Apothecary dates back to ancient civilizations where practitioners blended herbs, minerals, and other substances to treat illnesses. In ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, apothecaries (a term used to describe esteemed medical professionals), played a crucial role in medicine, combining their knowledge of plants and minerals with rudimentary chemistry.
During the Middle Ages, apothecaries operated from their own shops where they prepared remedies, dispensed medicines, and worked closely with physicians.
The apothecaries evolved over time, gradually transforming into the modern pharmacy in the 19th and 20th centuries, reflecting advances in medical science and technology.
Heinen’s Apothecary is a modern day representation of the ancient apothecary featuring a wide assortment of natural remedies from reputable brands that support the belief that optimal health can be fostered through holistic solutions.
Heinen’s Apothecary: A Holistic Alternative to the Traditional Pharmacy
Settled within the Wellness Department, Heinen’s Apothecary provides an alternative to big-box pharmacies by proudly offering holistic products that support the “food as medicine” paradigm, says Ashley Worrall, Heinen’s Director of Wellness.
“As a practice that addresses mind, body, and spirit, holistic health is a lifestyle,” she explains, “and it’s one that encompasses mindfulness, nutrition, and safe, effective remedies that go beyond just treating physical symptoms.”
Holistic Wellness Made Easy with Highly Curated Natural Products
That makes Heinen’s Apothecary – with its focus on clean, all-natural, whole food-based products – the perfect space to explore and adopt holistic health measures. While unique in the industry, Heinen’s approach to wellness is a logical outgrowth of the grocer’s longstanding philosophy of offering safe, natural, and sustainable products. “Everything you’ll find in the Apothecary is vetted, highly curated, and designed to support good health,” Ashley says. “Heinen’s Wellness Department has been in that space for more than 13 years. It’s truly a part of Heinen’s DNA to have these beautiful, safe, wholesome products that you just won’t find anywhere else.”
The Apothecary is also a timely response to the growing interest in holistic health. “Younger shoppers in particular are prioritizing their health and wellness at much higher levels, and even big-box pharmacies are starting to recognize that,” Ashley explains. “The difference is that Heinen’s takes the guesswork out of shopping.”
A Product Selection to Treat Everyday Conditions
Within the Apothecary, customers will find hundreds of the best natural products available, all gathered in one place. Some are new to Heinen’s, and some may be familiar – but all have been chosen to help optimize health and wellness.
You’ll see herbal capsules, tinctures, and teas, along with aromatherapy products and essential oils. Also look for an assortment of CBD products, with and without THC, to support pain relief and help manage inflammation, stress, and sleep issues, as well as a selection of adaptogens, like mushrooms, holy basil, and ashwagandha, that are often used to help relieve anxiety and stress.
But perhaps the largest segment of Heinen’s Apothecary is reserved for homeopathic products, Ashley says. Based on the practice of treating ‘likes with likes,’ homeopathy has an ancient history and a modern, well-stocked medicine bag holding a wide variety of natural products aimed at relieving symptoms ranging from joint pain and skin warts to colic and menstrual cramps.
“These are clean, natural ways to treat everyday conditions,” Ashley says. “And unlike the over-the-counter drugs you can buy at other grocery store pharmacies, these products are designed to go beyond merely treating symptoms. Instead, their daily use can be an important part of supporting all around good health – without the use of synthetics, fillers, or dyes.”
Furthermore, every product on the Apothecary’s shelves has been vetted for safety and effectiveness by a team of wellness experts that includes Heinen’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Todd Pesek, M.D., and, in the case of food-based items, Chief Registered Dietitian, Melanie Jatsek, RD, LD.
“It’s very important to us that customers feel good about the choices they’ll find in the Apothecary,” says Ashley. “And because there are so many choices out there, we’ve been very deliberate in making sure our vetting process is sound. These products represent a solid blend of ancient wisdom and contemporary knowledge, and we’re confident of their effectiveness.”
Explore Heinen’s Apothecary in the Wellness Department
Beautiful new signage and a sleek, earthy vibe will help differentiate the Apothecary from the rest of Heinen’s Wellness Department, Ashley says. But when it comes to navigating the offerings, she adds, Heinen’s highly trained Wellness Consultants can provide an excellent introduction.
“I do understand that this might be an unfamiliar space for some folks,” Ashley says, “so if you have questions or you want to engage with one of these categories but you don’t know where to start, our Wellness Consultants are absolutely your top resource. Some of them grew up in this industry. They have boatloads of knowledge about these products and how to use them, and they’re delighted to share that with our shoppers.”
After all, Ashley says, the foundation of holistic medicine is treating the entire person. “So, the Apothecary offers products you can use every single day – to boost your immune system, to aid digestion, or to support your metabolism. As a natural way to promote a harmonious balance between body, mind, and spirit, Heinen’s Apothecary is truly for everyone.”
Ultimately, Ashley concludes, Heinen’s Apothecary can be an essential step in the journey toward vitality and mindful living. “We’re really proud of the products we have here,” she says, “and in this space, we hope you’ll find good health.”
