The Kindred Journal

INGREDIENTS: For the Croutons 4 cups cubed crusty bread Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling Sea salt, for sprinkling Caesar Salad Dressing 1 cup mayonnaise ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, grated 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce* Pinch sea salt Freshly ground black pepper ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese* For the Salad 1 pound romaine lettuce, about 2 medium heads, chopped or torn into bite-size pieces ½ cup shaved Parmesan cheese* Freshly ground black pepper METHOD: Make the croutons: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the bread cubes on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 10 to 18 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool. Make the dressing: In a large liquid measuring cup or medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and several grinds of pepper until smooth. Stir in the cheese and season to taste. If the dressing is too thick, stir in water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Assemble the salad: Place the lettuce in a large bowl. Add half the dressing, half the croutons, and half the cheese and toss to coat. Add more dressing as desired, tossing until the salad is coated to your liking. Season to taste and top with the remaining croutons, remaining cheese, and several grinds of pepper. Credit: @Loveandlemons.com

Fragrance is often the first thing we notice in skincare, a familiar scent can turn a daily task into a comforting ritual. But for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin, that same scent can lead to redness, itching, and flare-ups. At Kindred Apothecary, we believe that "natural" shouldn't automatically mean "heavily scented." Understanding the science of the skin barrier is the first step in choosing the right care for your family. 1. The Science of a Compromised Skin Barrier Think of your skin barrier as a protective shield. When it’s healthy, it locks in moisture and keeps irritants out. However, for babies or those managing eczema and dermatitis, this "shield" often has tiny gaps. When the skin barrier is compromised, fragrance—even from high-quality essential oils—can penetrate deeper than intended. This can lead to: Contact Dermatitis: Red, itchy rashes caused by a reaction to specific aromatic compounds. Increased Sensitivity: Stinging or burning sensations when applying products. Interrupted Healing: Irritants can keep the skin in a state of constant inflammation, making it harder for the barrier to repair itself. 2. Natural Isn't Always Neutral A common myth is that "natural" essential oils are always safe for sensitive skin. While oils like Tasmanian Lavender offer beautiful therapeutic benefits, they are still biologically active ingredients. For a newborn or someone in the middle of a severe eczema flare-up, the skin often needs a "sensory reset" a period where it is exposed to as few ingredients as possible to allow the barrier to rebuild. 3. Our Commitment to Purely Unscented Products At Kindred Apothecary, when we say a product is Unscented, we mean it in the truest sense of the word. Unlike many commercial brands that use "masking agents" (synthetic chemicals used to hide the natural smell of raw ingredients), our unscented range contains zero added fragrance and zero masking chemicals. You are simply smelling the clean, raw scent of our high-quality botanicals like Aloe Vera, Shea Butter and Grapeseed oil. This ensures that our Unscented Hand Wash and creams are as gentle and non-reactive as possible. 4. Giving Your Skin Space to Heal Less fragrance doesn’t mean less care. Often, it means listening more closely to what the skin truly needs: balance, deep nourishment, and the space to heal without interruption. We are proud to offer a dual approach. Whether you choose our lightly scented botanicals for a moment of calm or our unscented options for heightened sensitivity, you can trust that every bottle is crafted with the same Kindred promise of purity and family-safe care.

INGREDIENTS: TOFU 300 g / 10.5 oz firm tofu*, pressed 15 ml / 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (if GF) 1 tbsp cornflour / cornstarch (optional) 15 ml / 1 tbsp high smoke point oil (I used rice bran oil) SPRING ONION OIL (optional) 30 ml / 2 tbsp high smoke point oil 4 spring onions/scallions REMAINING INGREDIENTS 150 g / 5.3 oz tenderstem broccoli 150 g / 5.3 oz spring greens / collard greens 100 g / ¾ cup defrosted edamame or green peas 360 g / 3 cups leftover rice*, I used brown rice 20 ml / 1½ tbsp soy sauce or tamari (if GF), more to taste 10 ml / 2 tsp dark soy sauce, for colour (optional) 2.5 ml / ½ tsp sugar (optional) a good pinch of white pepper METHOD: TOFU Cut pressed tofu into 1.25 cm / 0.5″ cubes, place in a shallow dish and season with soy sauce. Mix it well and allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Use a small sieve to dust the tofu with cornflour/cornstarch as you heat up a skillet/pan to fry the tofu in (I used a well seasoned cast iron skillet). Add the oil to the preheated skillet, swivel the pan to coat and arrange tofu cubes on top. Allow them to pan fry undisturbed for a couple of minutes, then gently turn to the other side. Continue pan-frying and turning until browned on all sides. SPRING ONION OIL (optional) Wash and dry (otherwise they will splatter) spring onions. Cut white and white-green parts into 2 cm / 0.75″ segments, leave the green tops for garnish. Pour the oil to the bottom of the wok and heat up on low-medium heat, add spring onions. Allow them to cook gently in the shimmering oil for about 7 minutes. Make sure the heat is low so that the spring onions cook without turning brown (a little golden is fine). Using a flexible spatula, remove the spring onions and the oil from the wok and set aside. FRIED RICE Cut broccoli into even, bite-size pieces, remove the stems from the spring greens and slice them thinly across, then bunch up spring greens’ leaves and chop them into 0.5 cm / 0.2″ ribbons and then chop them the other way a couple of times. Heat up a wok until it starts smoking, then add 2 tsp of oil (leave spring onions behind if using spring onion infused oil) and swivel it around the wok. Add broccoli and str-fry for about 1 minute, add sliced stems and stir-fry for another minute and finally spring green leaves and edamame/green peas (if not making spring onion oil, add white and white-green parts of spring onion at this point) and stir-fry for another minute or so. Add a tablespoon of water to the wok and carry on stir frying until all of the moisture evaporates and spring greens are fully cooked. Remove everything from the wok and set aside. Wipe the work with a paper towel if needed and heat it up again. Add the rest of the spring onion oil and spring onions. Once hot, add cold rice. Toss it in the hot oil quickly, then spread on the bottom of the wok with the spatula. Allow it to cook for about 30 seconds then toss again, allow it to cook for another 30 seconds then toss once more. Mix the last four ingredients in a small bowl then use it to season the rice. Return vegetables and tofu to the wok. Toss a few times to combine and to heat up fully, taste and season more to taste if needed. Serve immediately. Credit: @lazycatkitchen.com

At Kindred Apothecary, our approach to skincare begins with intention. Our journey was shaped by real family experience and a deep understanding of what it truly means to live with sensitive skin. What you put on your body matters, especially when gentleness is a necessity, not just a preference. That’s why every ingredient we use is carefully selected for its purity, safety, and proven compatibility with even the most delicate skin. 1. Certified for Your Peace of Mind We believe that "natural" shouldn't be a guessing game. Our formulas are built around plant-based ingredients that are ECOCERT or COSMOS approved. These aren't just industry buzzwords; they are global standards that ensure our ingredients are ethically sourced, biodegradable, and free from harmful synthetics. We choose our ingredients not for trends, but for their ability to nourish and respect your skin’s natural barrier. 2. The Power of Purposeful Botanicals In a Kindred Apothecary bottle, there are no "fillers." Every component plays a purposeful role: Aloe Vera: Used as a soothing base to provide immediate hydration. Shea Butter: Chosen for its rich emollient properties that deeply moisturize and protect. Vitamin E: A potent antioxidant that helps defend the skin against environmental stressors. Grapeseed Oil: A lightweight "dry" oil that ensures our creams absorb beautifully without a greasy residue. We’ve created a comprehensive Ingredients Glossary where you can learn about the origin, benefits, and safety profile of every single ingredient we use. 3. Scent With Intention (or None at All) We understand that fragrance is a personal journey. For some, it is a sensory ritual; for others, it is a source of irritation. To honour both, we offer a dual approach: Lightly Scented: We use only pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils like Tasmanian Lavender, Australian Mandarin, and Vanilla. Fragrance-Free: We offer dedicated unscented options specifically designed for those with heightened sensitivity or eczema-prone skin. By excluding synthetic fragrances and unnecessary additives, we ensure our formulations are safe and effective for the whole family, from the youngest members to the oldest. 4. More Than Just Components At Kindred Apothecary, ingredients are more than just a list on a label. They are a reflection of our values and our promise to you. We believe in creating skincare that supports gentle routines, nurtures all generations, and offers care in its purest form, one bottle at a time.

INGREDIENTS: SCALLION OIL 8 small scallions / spring onions 120 ml / ½ cup neutral, high smoke oil (I used grapeseed) 1-2 tbsp chilli flakes* 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds SALAD 30-45 ml / 2-3 tbsp scallion oil (or shop-bought – SEE NOTES*) 20-30 ml / 1½-2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari if GF) 15 ml / 1 tbsp Chinkiang Black Rice Vinegar* 125 g / 4.4 oz dry ramen noodles (or flat rice noodles if GF) 1 small cucumber or 2-3 baby cucumbers 100 g / 3.5 oz sugar snap peas 100 g / 3.5 oz cooked edamame 1 avocado 10 radishes a handful of mint and/or coriander METHOD: SCALLION OIL Clean and trim your spring onions/scallions. Cut dark green parts off your spring onions/scallions – save them for garnish. Cut white and light green parts into 1.5 cm / 0.5″ segments. Place chilli flakes and toasted sesame seeds in a deep bowl. Stir a teaspoon of cold oil through them. Place the segments and the rest of the oil in a small pot and set it on a whisper of a heat. Allow the spring onions/scallions to cook in the oil to infuse it with flavour until beautifully caramelised. You can push it quite far, as long as you don’t burn them as it will make your oil taste acrid. As soon as you are done, carefully pour the oil into the bowl with chillies and sesame seeds. It’s going to bubble quite a bit so be sure there are no cats or kids running around. SALAD Combine 2 tbsp of the oil you prepared earlier (or shop-bought chilli oil/rayu) with vinegar and one and a half tablespoon of soy sauce in a small bowl, set aside. Cook noodles according to the instructions on the packet. Taste a little earlier to make sure you don’t overcook them – packet timings are often too generous. As soon as noodles are done cooking, rinse them under the cold tap, drain well and toss in the dressing. I used baby cucumbers. If using a regular cucumber, core it first. Slice the cucumber and radishes thinly, cut sugar snap peas on the diagonal, chop your herbs finely and dice your avocado. Combine cucumber, radishes, sugar snap peas, edamame and chopped herbs with dressed noodles. Divide between 2 (or 4) bowls and top with cubes of avocado. Drizzle with a little more scallion oil and soy sauce if needed. Credit: @Lazycatkitchen.com

At Kindred Apothecary, our story isn't just about skincare; it’s about a lineage of care. Our approach is deeply influenced by family tradition, a way of living that prioritises intention, nature, and the wisdom passed down through generations. Lessons from the Kitchen and Garden Growing up, my foundation in beauty wasn't found in a department store, but in the gardens and kitchens of my mother and grandmother. I watched them create simple, purposeful remedies using oils, herbs, and botanicals chosen with deep respect for their healing properties. These time-honoured practices taught me a vital lesson: Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated to be effective. When you start with high-quality, natural ingredients, the results speak for themselves. Inspired by the European Apothecary My passion for traditional craftsmanship was further ignited while traveling through Europe. In the heart of France, I found myself drawn to the quiet beauty of traditional apothecaries, spaces where heritage, community, and craftsmanship collided. Those European apothecaries reflected the same values I grew up with. They reminded me that skincare should be both functional and soulful. It’s not just about a product in a bottle; it’s about the ritual of care and the expertise behind the formulation. Bridging the Gap: Tradition Meets Modern Formulation Kindred Apothecary is the culmination of these two worlds. We’ve taken the warmth of family tradition and the craftsmanship of the old-world apothecary and brought them into the modern age with safe, scientifically-backed formulations. Family Tradition: The heart and intention behind every blend. Apothecary Craftsmanship: Our commitment to small-batch, artisanal quality. Modern Safety: Our use of ECOCERT and COSMOS-approved ingredients to ensure every bottle is safe for the whole family. We’ve created a range that feels timeless yet performs for modern life. Every product is a tribute to where we came from and a promise of where we are going. Thank you for being part of our story.

INGREDIENTS: 2 small zucchinis 1 corn on the cob 400 g / 14 oz white beans (cannellini), drained 200 g / 7 oz cherry tomatoes, quartered 3 celery stalks, finely sliced 12 large green pitted olives, chopped DRESSING 30 ml / 2 tbsp lemon juice + zest of 1 small lemon 1 garlic clove, grated finely 15 g / 0.5 oz fresh basil, leaves only 45 ml / 3 tbsp olive oil, more for brushing salt & pepper, to taste METHOD: Preheat a griddle pan. Cut zucchini into 0.5 cm / 0.2″ thick slices on the diagonal. Brush corn and zucchini slices with olive oil and arrange on the preheated pan. Allow them to cook undisturbed until charred on all sides – turning the corn every 3 minutes or so. Cut zucchini slices into pieces and shave corn kernels off the cob. Combine charred vegetables with drained beans, tomatoes, celery stalks and pitted olives in a bowl. Stir the dressing (or dressing and chopped basil) through the salad. DRESSING Combine grated garlic clove and lemon juice in a small bowl. Set aside – lemon juice will take the harshness out of the garlic. Place basil leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and lemon zest in a mini chopper. Blitz well and season to taste. Alternatively, chop basil leaves really finely and combine dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Credit: @Lazycatkitchen.com

In the beauty industry, fragrance is often synonymous with luxury. We are told that a scent defines the "experience" of a product. But for many, fragrance isn't a luxury, it’s a trigger. Through my own journey with fragrance sensitivity and caring for my son’s eczema-prone skin, I discovered a frustrating reality: even in the "natural" skincare world, truly gentle, scent-free options were surprisingly hard to find. This gap is exactly why Kindred Apothecary was born. Why "Natural" Isn't Always Enough Many people believe that if a scent comes from a plant, it must be safe. However, essential oils are biologically active compounds. While they offer beautiful benefits, they can be highly reactive for: Compromised Skin Barriers: When skin is dry or cracked, aromatic compounds can penetrate too deeply. Developing Skin: Babies and young children have thinner skin that is more prone to irritation. Chronic Conditions: For those managing eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis, fragrance is often the first thing a dermatologist will recommend removing. Our Commitment: Fragrance-Free as a Priority, Not an Afterthought At Kindred Apothecary, we didn't just "strip out" scent to create our unscented range. We formulated these products from the ground up to support the skin barrier. Our Unscented Collection focuses on what the skin actually needs to heal: Plant-Based Emollients: Like Grapeseed oil and Shea Butter to replenish lipids. Gentle Humectants: To draw moisture into the skin. Zero Masking Agents: Unlike many "unscented" commercial products that use synthetic chemicals to hide the smell of raw ingredients, our products are purely fragrance-free. You are smelling nothing but the clean, raw quality of our botanicals. Inclusivity in Every Bottle Choosing fragrance-free skincare isn’t about removing the pleasure from your daily ritual; it’s about replacing irritation with comfort and trust. We believe every member of the family deserves to feel at home in their own skin. By offering high-performance, fragrance-free options, we ensure that those with the most sensitive skin never have to compromise on quality or results. Looking for a gentler way to cleanse and moisturize? Explore our Unscented Range here and give your skin the space it needs to breathe and heal. Photo credit: @EyeEm

At Kindred Apothecary, our story didn't start in a boardroom or a lab. It started at home, fuelled by a mother’s necessity and a personal quest for skin that felt comfortable. A Search for Gentleness The journey began when my son developed eczema linked to food sensitivities. Suddenly, the products I once reached for felt too harsh, too complicated, or simply ineffective. At the same time, I was navigating my own sensitivities to fragranced skincare, finding that even "natural" products were often loaded with essential oils or synthetic scents that left my skin reactive. I searched for skincare that was: Genuinely gentle for a child’s delicate skin. Free from unnecessary fragrance and synthetic "fillers." Simple and effective for the whole family to use. Surprisingly, finding products that met all three criteria was incredibly difficult. Even in the natural beauty space, complex formulations and heavy scents were the norm. Turning to Nature When I couldn't find what our family needed, I turned to the basics. I began crafting simple, plant-based formulas in small batches. I wanted to strip away the noise and focus on ingredients that actually calm, nourish, and protect the skin barrier. These early blends were created with deep intention. I focused on high-quality botanicals like Grapeseed oil and Aloe Vera, ensuring that we always had fragrance-free options for those days when our skin needed nothing but pure, uncomplicated care. From Personal Solution to Kindred Apothecary What started as a kitchen-counter solution soon sparked interest beyond our home. Family and friends, especially those who struggled with sensitivities, began asking for my formulations. It became clear that there was a community of people looking for the same thing I was: natural skincare without the irritation. Today, Kindred Apothecary has grown into a small-batch, Melbourne-based brand. While we have grown, our philosophy remains exactly the same: Family First: Every product is inspired by real family needs. Small-Batch Quality: We make everything in Melbourne to ensure the highest standards of care. Generational Care: Our creams and washes are designed to be loved by everyone, from toddlers to grandparents. Join Our Journey Kindred Apothecary is more than just a skincare line; it’s a promise to provide care in its purest form. We invite you to explore our full collection and find the gentle routine that works for your family.

Welcome to Kindred Apothecary. We are a family-founded, Melbourne-based brand born from a simple but vital mission: to create skincare with care, intention, and a deep respect for the skin’s natural barrier. If you’ve been searching for gentle, effective, and transparent skincare, we are so glad you found your way to us. Why We Started Kindred Apothecary Our journey began at home. Like many families, we experienced the challenge of finding products that were truly suitable for sensitive skin, formulations that were effective enough to work, but gentle enough for everyone to use. Kindred Apothecary was created to bridge that gap. We offer thoughtfully formulated products that support modern family life, focusing on high-quality, plant-based ingredients that nourish rather than irritate. Small Batches, Big Intentions Every Kindred Apothecary product is made in small batches. This allows us to maintain strict quality control and ensure the freshness of our botanical ingredients. Plant-Based & Certified: We prioritize ingredients that are ECOCERT or COSMOS approved. The Fragrance-Free Promise: We know that for many with eczema-prone or highly sensitive skin, fragrance is a dealbreaker. That’s why we will always offer fragrance-free options across our range. Performance Driven: From our Australian Mandarin & Vanilla Body Cream to our nourishing hand washes, every product is designed to bring simplicity and comfort to your daily ritual. A Modern Apothecary for Your Home Our online store is a curated space where you can explore our full range of hand washes, hand creams, and body creams. Whether you are looking for a gift or a daily essential, we invite you to browse our collection.  Let’s Connect We believe skincare should be personal. If you have questions about our ingredients, our glossary, or which product might best suit your skin’s needs, please reach out to us via our Contact Page. Wholesale & Partnerships: We love partnering with like-minded retailers who share our values of quality and thoughtful craftsmanship. If you’re interested in stocking Kindred Apothecary, we’d love to hear from you. From our family to yours, thank you for being part of our story.