Tucked into the foothills of Haiku on Maui, meet Fernanda - an evolutionary Herbalist, farmer and distiller doing regenerative farming on a whole new level.
On our regenerative journey for precious plumeria hydrosol we met the incredible grower, evolutionary herbalist and distiller, Fernanda Carvalho. She is doing something very different on her little slice of tropical paradise. Inspired by Ernst Götsch, a Swiss farmer and researcher who advocates for an ancient system of climate and biodiversity-friendly sustainable farming techniques - she’s planted a garden like you’ve never seen.
On a zoom call we were transported to her small farm on the slopes of Haleakala, the volcano of the island. Midway through our conversation she jumped up and exclaimed, “let me show you my garden!” It felt like we were there with her, breathing in the healing energy. It was more like a natural landscape brimming with flowers and bees. She created this paradise through what she calls "Agro-flowerstry" and Syntropic farming methods, akin to agroforestry. By planting diverse flowers and herbs in proximity and synergy with each other, she is building the most healthy soil you can imagine.
Wild harvest and distillation
Beyond her garden, she works directly with neighboring ancestral farmers native to Maui located on the West Maui Mountains. From this land where it has grown for millenia, she is able to harvest and distill plumeria.
At the height of the full moon, Fernanda gathers blossoms ensuring they are at the peak of their potency. Her rich plumeria hydrosol is brimming with vitality and high vibration. The careful attention to the ebb and flow of the natural world is the key to the magic that finds its way into every drop.
Plumeria and the skin
The plumeria flower, also known as frangipani, holds great significance in Hawaiian culture, as a symbol of beauty, love, spirituality, renewal, healing, and connection to the land. The sweetly scented, vibrant petals of plumeria evoke divine light and abundant love. It relaxes the nerves and muscles and holds aphrodisiac qualities. On the skin, plumeria boasts various therapeutic, astringent and purifying properties. The glycosides in frangipani help to hydrate and absorb vital nutrients. Glycosides are unique to plumeria which sets it apart as a truly special botanical treasure.
Fernanda making a lei
Local impact
Environmental sustainability
As a local business in Maui, Fernanda and her business, Lokelani, are deeply committed to supporting the community in meaningful ways. They actively participate in initiatives that promote community well-being and environmental sustainability. One way they do this is by collaborating with other farms, offering support in their growth, and implementing agroforestry techniques to enhance their production and the overall health of their crops.
Volunteering
In the aftermath of the Maui fires, Fernanda immediately volunteered on multiple fronts. She donated and provided hydrosols to the camps, offering emotional support to those directly affected by the fire. Additionally, she prepared a healing salve infused with Olena (turmeric) to help individuals with minor skin burns. This was her way of lending a helping hand during a challenging time.
Gazebo of learning
This special space on her farm serves as a hub for workshops and educational sessions. She organizes events for individuals interested in learning about sustainable agroforestry farming practices, evolutionary herbal medicine, and the benefits of natural products. It is a welcoming place where people can come together, share knowledge, and foster a sense of community.
Cultivation and distillation
Fernanda is a true artist and takes great care in the cultivation and distillation of incredible plants. Her farm is home to a variety of remarkable plants, including Lokelani Roses, rosemary, lemongrass, oregano, Pikake Jasmine, Gardenias, Puakenikenis, Tuberose, Plumerias, and many others. These plants not only add beauty to the farm but also form the foundation for the high-quality essential oils and natural products she offers.
Hawaiian Plumeria HydroSoul
