Travel essentials from Santa Maria Novella
A popular tourist destination in Florence, Italy, Santa Maria Novella is one of the oldest pharmacies in the world. Established shortly after 1221, the Dominican fathers cultivated herbs to prepare balms and creams for the monastery’s small infirmary.
In 1612 when their products became known even in foreign countries, they decided to open the pharmacy to the public. By the 18th century, the efficacy of their formulas spread as far as Russia, the Indies and distant China.
Now, more than 700 years later, it is truly amazing that these wonderful products have reached our shores via Rustan’s.
Only the highest quality natural ingredients are used to produce colognes, toiletries, bath and beauty products, and home fragrances — some of which are perfect for the unique, romantic traveler.
Must List
Santa Maria Novella’s potpourri — They say once you’ve smelled it you’ll know why people flock to Florence to stock up on these. Scrupulously handmade using ancient methods, this long lasting, potpourri is a full-bodied blend of herbs and flowers, grown without pesticides in the hills of Florence.
Iris Toothpaste — A non-abrasive, all-natural, miracle toothpaste made of Iris powder, bloodroot, propolis, spearmint, cinnamon, clove and peppermint oils, white clay and bicarbonate of soda. This handmade product is limited in its production. It not only cleans and refreshes, it has strong astringent, anti-gingivitis and anti-plaque properties as well. After a week of using this toothpaste, all others will leave an artificial, chemical taste in your mouth.
Acqua di Melissa — Comes in handy as a great digestive and anti-spasmodic herbal remedy. Created by Friar A. Paladini in 1690, it’s a mixture of melissa plant or lemon balm, Chinese cinnamon, coriander, clary sage, issopo, carnation and angelica. Three or four teaspoons should be taken in a small cup of warm, sugared water to calm the stomach when having traveler’s abdominal pain.
Pasticche di Santa Maria Novella — Minty lozenges containing essential oils from plants known for its relaxing and calming qualities. These were especially popular during the days when women wore tightly laced corsets that caused hyperventilation and hysteria. The lozenges produce a generally calming effect and help digestion after heavy meals. They can be used to help prevent motion sickness. Take one or two tablets as necessary and let dissolve under the tongue.
Carefully packaged in silk sachets with the crest of Santa Maria Novella, use a needle or safety pin to poke small holes in bag to freshen closets, bathrooms, cars, boats, or repel moths and insects.
Santa Maria Novella is available at Rustan’s Essenses.
