Gaia Garden Herbal Dispensary

The first Greek god was actually a goddess, Gaia, Mother Earth. She inspired Chanchal Cabrera to found Gaia Garden Herbal Dispensary in 1993. After a series of ownership changes, the herbal paradise was taken over by Michele Todd, Angela Shand and two others - all long-term staff - in 2012.

Holistic health practitioner Angela joined the business in 2005. It aligned with her philosophy born from studies in herbology, nutrition and flower essences. Michele joined in 2003. Her passion for herbal medicine helped her rise from receptionist to co-owner and chief tea mixer.

They explain that herbal medicine works in a holistic sense with very few to no side effects, unlike pharmaceuticals. It works on the source, not the symptoms. Angela adds, “People have to be consistent with herbal medicine, build it up in their system, to heal the source of the problem.”

Gaia Garden's philosophy is that plant-based medicine should be affordable with few side effects, and that clients are well-informed so they can make the best decisions for their health. The shop is also an educational centre, offering workshops on topics like herbology, aromatherapy, chakra energy, astrology, and herb walks. Gaia has a license through Health Canada to sell Herbal Medicines, their formulas are registered and have Natural Health Product numbers.