We get asked a lot of questions about the types of herbs we grow and the process we use to make our skincare range. So we thought we would put these questions to Paul Richards, the founder of Herbfarmacy!

What herbs and plants do you grow that are used in your skincare range?

“We grow about 13 herbs for the skincare products: Buckwheat, Burdock, Calendula, Chickweed, Comfrey, Cornflower, Dandelion, Echinacea, Hypericum (St John’s Wort), Marshmallow, Meadowsweet, Mullein and Pansy. We also use Ginkgo and Horse Chestnut (conkers) which are from trees at nearby Kinnersley Castle (they have one of the oldest and largest Ginkgo trees in the UK - our own small tree is only 2 metres high so far!)

One of the star plants in the range is Marshmallow. How long does it take for it to become part of a balm: from the seeds being planted until the extract is ready to be used in a beauty product?

“In Autumn, we save the seeds from the current crop that’s about to be harvested and these are stored ready to be sown in trays in the greenhouse in Feb/March. The seedlings are planted out in May and we nurture them and keep them as free of weeds as possible for two Summer seasons following which the roots are lifted during the Winter and washed, chopped and dried ready for extracting in oil. Extraction is in high-oleic sunflower oil at around 95 C. The oil is then filtered and is ready for use in a balm.

What different methods do you use to get herbal extracts? How do they differ depending on the plant?

“We extract in oil and water. Some herbs are extracted in hot oil (as with Marshmallow root) whilst others are extracted at around 20-25 C such as Calendula and Mullein flowers. We extract in water by decoction - the herb is boiled in water for 10 minutes and this process is used for both roots and above-ground parts (leaves/flowers). The extract is then filtered and cooled to be used immediately in a cream.

Are there any herbs/flowers that require extra attention during the whole farm to skin process?

“ The flowers are the most delicate and need to be handled carefully and dried rapidly to preserve their colour. St John’s Wort (Hypericum) flowers have to be extracted fresh in oil to produce the peculiar blood-red oil that’s so good for muscles and for mild pain relief.

What is your favourite plant to work with and why?

“This is a very difficult question for me as I love them all! I guess it’s between Marshmallow which we use so much and Mullein which is so impressive - growing up to 13ft or 4 metres in height. Marshmallow root has wonderful gentle mucilages for soothing the skin (and the digestive system when used internally). Break open a fresh root and you can feel the silky nature of these substances.

Why is it important to you to run an organic farm?

“I studied as a botanist with a particular interest in plant communities and natural sustainable ecosystems, before going on to research in plant physiology. I wanted to grow in a way that respects the natural cycles and for me organic was the only way that made sense. We are certified by the Soil Association and the name say it all - the aim is to create and maintain a healthy soil which gives the environment for raising healthy plants for maximum benefits as food for eating - or as food for the skin!