In the Garden with Hannah and Suzette of Wyuna Botanicals

Wyuna Botanicals is the collaboration of sister duo, Hannah and Suzette Mason. Combining Hannah’s personal experience with skin allergies and Suzette’s expertise as a naturopath and cosmetic chemist led them to utilise powerful plant derivatives to transform skin. In my interview with the sisters, they revealed the one natural sound they believe everyone should experience in their lifetime. Discover more in our latest "Hour in Nature" feature.

What are your fondest memories of spending time in nature?

In our early years, we were always playing in the garden underneath our wattle tree. We would catch cicadas, play in the dirt and make mud pies, and be surrounded by flowers. Our grandma was a garden enthusiast, so when we visited her we spent hours in her bush house, which is an Australian term for a fernery, this is where we learnt about the native botanicals and herbs that she was growing.

Many of us are time-poor and might not get out into nature as much as we’d like. Any suggestions for a quick nature-based pick-me-up? Something sensory, experiential…?

A quick dip in the ocean or any water source is the best pick-me-up and to make you feel alive and in your body. Research shows that immersing yourself in water improves cognitive function, memory and mood by increasing blood flow to the brain. We spend much of our time near the ocean so we wanted to incorporate this element into our brand philosophy somehow, Wyuna originates from an Aboriginal word meaning, clear water.

Is there an animal or plant that you’ve always felt particularly drawn to, and can you explain why?

We love Aloe vera due to its versatility and health benefits, which is why we’ve included it in our Misty Mushroom Face Spritz and Golden Gem Face Cream. It's anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and rich in vitamin C. We use this hardy plant on sunburn, mozzie bites and soothing skin flare ups and dry skin.

Is there a sound in nature that you believe everyone should hear at least once in their lifetime?