The Science of Life

There are many offerings at the Texas Farmers Market at Mueller, but a unique one that stands out is an Ayurvedic line of wellness products called Herban Veda. Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest medical systems that originated in India 5,000 years ago. It relies on a natural and holistic approach to physical, mental, and emotional health. The word “Ayurveda” comes from Sanskrit and means “the science of life.” In Ayurveda, the belief is that everything in life is connected. Because of this, wellness is about achieving balance and harmony. If you’re looking for an alternative healthcare product line, you should take a look at Herban Veda. 

Roots in Healing 

Caitlin Rowe, the owner of Herban Veda, said her business idea began when she attended the Sacred Journey School of Herbalism in 2014. At that time, she created mostly tinctures, cordials, and mushroom extractions. She says, “At that time I was inspired by the world of plants as a budding herbalist.” In 2017, Rowe began training to be an Ayurvedic Practitioner. This informed her practice in a whole new way. When she took a deep dive into understanding the philosophy behind Ayurveda and how the principles of the elements show up in the body, she began shifting the herbal products she was already making into more focused, daily routine-style topicals and remedies. This changed what she was formulating and expanded her line. “I started making things like oil infusions, alcohol-free digestives, seasonal hydrosols, herbal first aid, and daily practices safe for the whole family. I make these products with all elemental constitutions in mind so that they are helpful and balancing for most people.” It turns out that just because an herb works for a symptom someone is experiencing does not mean it is beneficial for that person. And that is what inspires Rowe’s formulations. Because we are all so unique with different needs and health issues, Rowe works on creating formulas that strive for moderation and balance to heal the body, mind, and spirit. 

What Rowe creates apparently works very well, because for the past 13 years, her business has blossomed and evolved.

“The plants are still at the root of it all.” She began selling her products at Mueller Market in 2021. Since then, she’s developed a following, and her best-selling products at the market are the Amrita Face Serum, the Juniper Infused Magnesium Lotion, and the Sun’s Out organic and natural sunscreen. I did grab a jar of the natural sunscreen and can attest that it is very nice and works beautifully. Her products are also sold at Wheatsville, Herb Bar, Earth Commons, and online (herbanvida.com). 

Rowe clearly has a passion for holistic healthcare, as she has been a massage therapist for over 20 years and does Ayurvedic body therapy treatments. She cares deeply about the ingredients that go into her products and even grows many of her own herbs that she uses in the formulations. A native Austinite and 6th-generation Texan, Rowe is very knowledgeable about the landscape and the herbs that grow best in this climate. 

The next time you head to the market on Sunday morning, consider stopping by Herban Veda and learning more about Ayurveda and Rowe. Her stall is outside, facing Kerbey Lane Cafe.