Contemporary Apothecary Now Open in Arlington Heights

The idea of an apothecary is not a new concept. Before pharmacies existed, people sought out their local alchemist at the local apothecary for natural healing remedies and guidance for physical, mental and spiritual health improvement.

Founder Virginia Gullo-Ciaccio has always lived her life naturally and organically conscious. Growing up in a traditional Sicilian family emphasized a strong foundation of community and an appreciation for the bounty offered to us by Mother Nature. Learning to respect and cultivate the natural resources from the land, our ancestors worked in tandem with an inherent understanding of the natural environment. They passed on the basic knowledge that organic foods, herbs, essential oils and precious stones contain preventative and curative properties that can be alchemized and used for natural healing.

The Philosopher’s Stone Apothecary & Chakra Healing Center, in Arlington Heights, offers natural healing remedies and alternative healing services Tuesdays through Saturdays, Saturday workshops from 2 to 3 p.m., and a weekly Thursday evening Community Healing Circle at 6 p.m. In addition, practitioners are specialized in herbal medicine, human design readings, and sleep, nutrition and hydration coaching.

An introductory package is available through August with a sampling of their services. A 60-minute discovery session ($65) includes a complimentary stone bracelet. Practitioners in various holistic modalities will answer questions and offer their services such as 15-minute one-on-one life coaching; 15-minute yoga; 15-minute meditation; and 15-minute reiki healing.