natural aromas — People are unaware of what’s growing around them, yet Cyprus is rich in natural aromas and historical significance. Nestled in the village of Pyrgos, east of Limassol, the island was once home to the oldest perfume factory in the Mediterranean, dating back four thousand years. An earthquake led to its abandonment, but the discovery of early distilling devices reveals a long-standing tradition of utilising Cypriot botanical extracts.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Fast forward to the modern era, and this rich history is being revived by a couple with a passion for natural perfumes. Doroteya Petrova and Anastasios Anastasiou founded Halkos Botanicals, inspired by a desire for a healthier lifestyle after relocating from England. Their journey began four years ago when they realised the harmful effects of synthetic products in their previous careers in cosmetology.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
“Some of the products had absolutely nothing natural… and I realised that this meant a lot of disease,” Anastasiou reflects, emphasising the disconnect between beauty products and wellbeing. This realisation prompted a transformation in their approach, leading them to create their own natural formulations.
With the pandemic as a backdrop in 2021, the couple settled in Cyprus, where Anastasiou has deep roots. They dreamt of creating something unique, surrounded by the island’s abundant aromatic flora. “Literally, everywhere you turn, everywhere you look, every plant you touch is aromatic,” Doroteya notes, highlighting the inspiration found in their surroundings.
Natural aromas: From Inspiration to Creation
As they embraced their new life, the idea of crafting natural perfumes blossomed during the quiet hours of parenting. “During the long hours of nursing, I had time to think and be inspired,” Doroteya shares. With a handcrafted copper alembic from Portugal, Halkos Botanicals was born, named after the Greek word for copper, reflecting the essence of Cyprus.
At the Pyrga Viewing Point in the Larnaca district, the couple introduces me to their vision. Their home, currently being renovated, will serve as the base for their creations, along with small botanical gardens to accompany their offerings. Doroteya holds a cutting of cistus creticus, a plant pivotal in their product line, illustrating how deeply connected they are to the land.
The Art of Distillation
“The idea behind the whole copper distillation apparatus was to make distilled waters,” Doroteya explains. Their process ensures superior quality, leveraging copper’s antimicrobial properties to enhance the distillation. They craft distilled waters from various plants, including lavender, rosemary, and geranium, each chosen for its unique aromatic and medicinal qualities.
The couple is particularly passionate about educating others on the natural resources available around them. “A lot of people are unaware of what’s growing around them,” Anastasiou points out, stressing the fading knowledge of ancient practices. They aim to revive interest in traditional botanical perfumery, which relies on seasonal cycles and the natural characteristics of the flora.
Products that Tell a Story
Halkos Botanicals’ product line reflects their commitment to authenticity and quality. With offerings that range from oil-based to solid perfumes, each product is designed to engage the senses in different ways. “I want people to indulge in the best way of applying perfume,” Doroteya explains, noting the variations in how fragrances interact with the skin depending on their form.
Among their creations is Paralia, a summer-inspired aroma featuring citrus and bergamot, and Pyrga, which captures the essence of its namesake with notes of mastic and pine. The couple also employs enfleurage, an ancient technique to extract the authentic aroma from flowers, ensuring that their products are as close to nature as possible.
“We’re sharing a small amount of what we do with the outside world because we know it’s healthy, it’s clean, it’s organic, it’s real, it’s alive,” Anastasiou expresses. Their commitment extends beyond producing perfumes; it’s about fostering a connection to the environment and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
A Personal Touch in Every Bottle
Halkos Botanicals began as a personal venture, born out of a desire for purity and wellness. “It all began for personal use, and in a way it will remain that way,” Anastasiou states, reinforcing their philosophy of quality over quantity. Their limited production ensures that each creation is crafted with care, reflecting their values and dedication to sustainability.
As the couple looks to the future, they remain committed to educating others about the beauty and benefits of natural ingredients. “Botanical perfumery has taught me so much, even about living if you will,” Doroteya shares, highlighting the lessons learned through patience and respect for nature’s cycles. With each distilled drop, Halkos Botanicals not only revives an ancient tradition but also inspires a new generation to reconnect with the natural world around them.
