Dr. Hauschka establishes new fair trade initiative in Ethiopia

Related tags Essential oil

Dr.Hauschka Skin Care has invested in a new fair trade initiative in Ethiopia in a bid it says, to create an economically sustainable community by establishing a biodynamic resource for Damask rose essential oil.

Ethiopian Damask Roses Harvested for Dr.Hauschka Skin Care.

The Germany company's Skin Care manufacturer WALA Heilmittel is said to be helping to create the sustainable community through the Ethiopian essential oil, which is a key ingredient in Dr.Hauschka formulations.

"Seven years ago, Dr.Hauschka provided Ethiopian farmer Fekade Lakew with rose cuttings and introduced him to a consultant to train and advise on biodynamic cultivation methods," a spokesperson revealed.

"In 2012, Lakew distilled his first batch of rose essential oil and initiated the biodynamic certification process, and once certified, his farm will be the sole certified biodynamic source of essential rose oil in Africa," they added.

According to the company representitive, the benefit of growing roses near the equator is that the lifespan of the bloom increases substantially, giving farmers twice the time to harvest, and requiring fewer pickers who can often be employed beyond the typical picking season.