Merz Apothecary

12/13/07

A unique blend of Old World Herbarium & new age healing wisdom.

by uradel at Citysearch

I can't imagine the city without Merz Apothecary. My mother dragged us here as kids (I'm 50 something) and the chemist would look at our various childhood scrapes or rashes and discuss the ointments (in German) with my mother. We treated bruises with Arnica long before "health nuts" here ever heard of it. We would bring the magic home and it always worked. Our family doctor actually recommended this place to us! The smells of the original Lincoln Av. shop is incredible. You'll want to stay in there all day just to inhale the herby aroma. They have toiletries that you can't find any where else. Tabac, Woods of Windsor, Taylor of London, the list goes on & on. They have Dr.Hauschka products that Whole foods never heard of. You should visit the shop just to experience it. You half expect to see Brother Cadfael emerging from the back room. It's out of another era yet there expertise is quite advanced. They have the most polished professional staff, and these people are brilliant. They possess a very rare knowledge of health and healing that is mind boggling. The place is fantastic. I love it!

• Pros: Incredible product lines
• Cons: none

This deluxe drugstore features Icelandic lotions, French hard candies and sniff-a-licious soaps.

by Jennifer Olvera at Citysearch

The Scene
In operation since 1875, this quaint, old-world pharmacy specializes in homeopathic remedies and international toiletries. Unmistakably family-owned in feel, its holistic approach is comforting and contemporary at the same time. The approachable staff gladly suggest alternative treatments to whatever ails you.

The Goods
Dark, carved wood counters and shelves are brimming with sunscreens from France, deodorants from Germany and aromatherapeutic household cleansers from the States. Mineral herb scrubs, spa treatments for babies and naturally derived makeup make the whole family feel special. Ask for assistance with the wide variety of vitamins. Soaps are sold singly or in cakes of three, and are available in scents like calendula, iris and tea tree.