Ratanhia  


Fair Trade Ratanhia

Over 40 years ago, Weleda began protecting the endangered Ratanhia plant, whose existence became threatened due to its increasing popularity. In doing so, one of the world’s first Fair Trade projects was implemented. Through a closely-knit cooperative with a team of local farmers, the Nature Conservation Authority and other experts, this indigenous plant is now protected on 5,000 acres of certified organic land. For every plant that is extracted from the earth, 5 seeds from this plant are replanted in this exact location.

Through this project, Weleda has secured its annual need for 1 ton of dried Ratanhia roots for use in its Oral Care formulations. In addition, Weleda has provided education and a guaranteed, fair-market wage for local farmers, while creating a sustainable life for the Ratanhia plant. 

Cultivation Location 
Andes Mountains, San Antonio, Peru

Time of Harvest 
Summer 

Cultivation Quality 
Organic and wild-crafted