FAQs

We’re so glad you’re stopping by. Here’s everything you need to find us with ease.

📍Our Address

Unit 14, DuVille Industrial Park
8 Arum Lily Street, Fisantekraal Industrial
Durbanville, Cape Town, 7550
South Africa

Map and Directions

• Map link: Essentially Natural Warehouse
• Handy tip: We are located in DuVille industrial park, a red face brick building with a black gate. Second on your left if you are turning off the main road into Arum Lily Street.

🕛Collection hours

• Monday–Friday: 08:00–16:30
• Closed on weekends and public holidays

When you arrive

• Ring unit 14 on the number pad at the gate so we can let you through
• Have your order number ready 
• Someone else collecting? Please share the order number with them beforehand

💡 Good to know

• We don’t have a showroom for browsing, but walk-in purchases are welcome (stock varies on the day)
• Card payments only at the warehouse (no cash)
• For the smoothest visit, choose Warehouse Pick-Up at checkout and wait for your ready-for-collection email before popping in

Need a hand?

If you’d like landmark tips or have a quick question before you leave, feel free to pop us a message or give us a call and we will help you from there. 🌿

We don’t have a storefront or showroom for browsing, but you’re welcome to make a walk-in purchase at our warehouse. We’re happy to help place an order in person; just note that browsing on-site isn’t available and stock is subject to availability on the day.

🛒Best experience: Order online, then collect

1. Place your order online.
2. At checkout, choose Pick Up from Warehouse.
3. Wait for your ready-to-collect email notification.
4. Bring your order number when you come to collect.

📍Where to find us

• Address: Unit 14, DuVille Industrial Park, 8 Arum Lily Street, Fisantekraal, Durbanville ,Cape Town, 7550
• Collection hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (We are closed on Weekends and Public Holidays)
• Map link: Essentially Natural Warehouse
• On arrival: Have your order number ready; our team will guide you to the collection point.

Tip: If someone else is collecting on your behalf, please share the order number and their name with us in advance.

💡Helpful notes

• Stock moves quickly, ordering online first helps us reserve your items.
• Card payments only at the warehouse (no cash).
• Walk-in purchases are welcome, but availability may vary on the day.
• Sending someone else to collect? Please share the order number with them.

❔FAQs

Can I browse products at the warehouse?
There’s no showroom space for browsing. For the full range and product details, please browse online.

Can I buy without ordering online?
Yes, walk-in purchases are possible, subject to what’s in stock at that moment.

How will I know my order is ready?
We’ll email you as soon as your order is packed and ready for collection.

What payment methods do you accept at the warehouse?
Card payments only; we’re not able to accept cash.

Shopping with us is as easy as your favourite store—just with a few clicks. Browse, choose your favourites, and check out securely.

⚡Quick steps

1) Browse or search
Explore categories and featured products from the menu, or type what you need into the search bar at the top of the page.

2) Add to cart
See something you love? Click ADD TO CART. You can add directly from search or category pages for faster shopping, or open a product to read details, choose your size (many items have options), and add it from there.

3) Review and checkout
Click the trolley icon (top right) and select REVIEW CART. Double-check your order, adjust quantities, or remove items. When you’re ready, hit CHECKOUT and follow the secure steps to complete your purchase.

That’s it—once your order is placed, we’ll take it from there.

❔FAQs

Can I check out without creating an account?
Yes—guest checkout is available.

Where do I apply a discount code or gift card?
At checkout, in the field labeled Discount code or gift card (above the Subtotal). Click Apply to update your total instantly.

Can I change my cart during checkout?
If you need to make changes, return to your cart via the trolley icon, adjust your selection, and continue to checkout.

Which payment methods do you accept?
You’ll see secure card payments and other popular options at checkout (you can also browse our payment options here).

How will I know my order went through?
You’ll receive a confirmation email with your order number and a summary of your purchase.

Need a hand?

We’re here for you—send us a quick message with what you’re trying to buy (a screenshot helps), and we’ll take a look together. 🌿

Got a discount code or gift card? Lovely. Simply enter it in the field labeled “Discount code or gift card” (just above the Subtotal) and tap Apply. Your total updates immediately—easy as that.

⚡Quick steps

1. Add your favourites to cart and head to checkout.

2. Find the “Discount code or gift card” box above the Subtotal.

3. Paste or type your code exactly as it appears.

4. Click Apply and watch your total refresh instantly.

💡Handy tips

• Codes are case-sensitive—double-check letters and numbers.
• Some offers have expiry dates or limited uses; if a code doesn’t work, this may be why.
• Copy–paste helps avoid typos; remove any spaces before or after the code.
• If you don’t use the full gift card balance, the remainder stays ready for next time.

❔FAQs

Can I stack multiple discounts?
Discounts can’t be stacked, so use the single discount that gives you the best savings.

Do codes work on sale items?
Yes—your gift card or discount code can still be applied even if your cart includes sale items.

Where will I see the new total?
In your order summary under the Subtotal—immediately after you click Apply.

FAQs Need a hand

We’re here for you—send us a quick message and we’ll help from there. 🌿

We don’t have a storefront or showroom for browsing, but you’re welcome to make a walk-in purchase at our warehouse. We’re happy to help place an order in person; just note that browsing on-site isn’t available and stock is subject to availability on the day.

🛒Best experience: order online, then collect

1. Place your order online.

2. At checkout, choose Pick Up from Warehouse.

3. Wait for your ready-to-collect email notification.

4. Bring your order number when you come to collect.

📍Where to find us

• Address: Unit 14, DuVille Industrial Park, 8 Arum Lily Street, Fisantekraal, Durbanville ,Cape Town, 7550
• Collection hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (We are closed on Weekends and Public Holidays)
• Map link: Essentially Natural Warehouse
• On arrival: Have your order number ready; our team will guide you to the collection point.

Tip: If someone else is collecting on your behalf, please share the order number and their name with us in advance.

💡Helpful notes

• Stock moves quickly—ordering online first helps us reserve your items.
• Card payments only at the warehouse (no cash).
• Walk-in purchases are welcome, but availability may vary on the day.
• Sending someone else to collect? Please share the order number with them.

❔FAQs

Can I browse products at the warehouse?
There’s no showroom space for browsing. For the full range and product details, please browse online.

Can I buy without ordering online?
Yes—walk-in purchases are possible, subject to what’s in stock at that moment.

How will I know my order is ready?
We’ll email you as soon as your order is packed and ready for collection.

What payment methods do you accept at the warehouse?
Card payments only; we’re not able to accept cash.

Our friendly customer support team is always happy to help with any special requests, order changes, or combining shipments - as long as your order is still in processing.

Once payment has been received, our dispatch team gets to work right away preparing your items and arranging delivery. If your order has already reached the upliftment bays by the time we receive your request, we unfortunately won’t be able to make any changes or additions, or combine it with another order.

❕ FAQs Important note about peak periods (sales and promotions)

During high-volume times—like sitewide sales and seasonal promos—our warehouse runs at full speed. Because of the volume and pace, we’re unable to accommodate change requests, including combining shipments, adding items, or editing order details, even if the order is still early in the process. We’ll always try to help where we can, but changes are very limited during these periods.

If you're unsure about timing, or if you'd like to make any amendments to your order, please feel free to reach out – we’ll do our best to assist wherever we can!🌿

Need a copy of an old invoice? You can grab it from your Order History in just a few clicks.

⚡Quick steps

1. Log in to your Essentially Natural account.

2. Open Order History.

3. Find the order you need and click Tax Invoice.

4. When the PDF opens, use your browser’s Download button to save it.

❔Don’t have an account or checked out as a guest?

No problem—pop us a message with your order number and the email used at checkout, and we’ll help you get a copy.

Still need a hand?

We’re here to help - pop us a WhatsApp or Email with your order number and we can assist from there.🌿

You’ll receive automatic shipping updates by email and, if you’ve opted in, by SMS—so it’s easy to keep an eye on your parcel from dispatch to delivery. Your shipping confirmation email also includes a tracking link, so you can follow your order every step of the way.

🚚Check anytime

Use our live tracking page: https://essentiallynatural.co.za/a/track

Just enter your order number to see the latest tracking events.

Need a hand?

Send us a quick message with your order number and we’ll help you check the status. 🌿

These timeframes start after dispatch and are shown in business days (Mondays to Fridays, excluding public holidays).

Cape Town (local main areas): next business day

Main centres: 2-3 business days (not including day of dispatch)

Regional and outlying areas: 4–6 business days (not including day of dispatch)

⚠️Extended Delivery Areas

Some delivery addresses fall within extended or outlying courier zones. In these areas, door-to-door delivery may be limited or subject to additional courier surcharges.

Where this applies, the door-to-door delivery option will not be available at checkout, and your order will default to the closest available collection point.

This helps ensure your parcel reaches you as quickly and smoothly as possible.

If you need any assistance, our support team is always happy to help.

💡Good to know

• You’ll receive a shipping confirmation email with a tracking link as soon as collection has been booked with the courier, so you can follow every step.
• Estimates can be a little longer during peak periods (sales, seasonal rushes, public holidays).

Need a hand?

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions—we’re happy to help. 🌿

Free carbon-negative delivery anywhere in South Africa when you spend R600 or more—no matter which delivery option you choose.

🚚If your order is under R600, shipping fees are:

Cape Town main areas: R65

Major centres: R85-R95

Regional and outlying areas: R120

⚠️Extended Delivery Areas

Some delivery addresses fall within extended or outlying courier zones. In these areas, door-to-door delivery may be limited or subject to additional courier surcharges.

Where this applies, the door-to-door delivery option will not be available at checkout, and your order will default to the closest available collection point.

This helps ensure your parcel reaches you as quickly and smoothly as possible.

If you need any assistance, our support team is always happy to help.

💡Good to know

• Fees are confirmed at checkout based on your delivery address.
• Free delivery applies automatically once your cart meets the R600 minimum.

Need a hand?

Need a hand? We’re here to help—pop us a message and we’ll guide you. 🌿

Unfortunately not. Many natural products—like seeds, botanicals, essential oils, and certain cosmetic ingredients—are limited or restricted for export due to customs and airline regulations.

Using your own international courier

You’re welcome to arrange collection with your preferred courier (UPS, FedEx, Aramex, or others).
Our dispatch team can provide parcel weights and dimensions to help you book freight accurately.

What we’ll supply on request:
• Parcel weight and dimensions
• Collection address and contact details
• Tax Invoice

Freight forwarders in South Africa

We can to a freight forwarding agent within South Africa.
Delivery to your chosen forwarder is free on orders over R500.

Tip: Put your freight forwarders address and contact information in the shipping details section at checkout

Duties, taxes, and import rules

Once your parcel arrives in your country, you may be responsible for import duties, VAT, and clearance fees.
Your courier or freight forwarder can advise on costs, documentation, and any product restrictions at destination.

📄Documents and compliance

Need our SARS export licence number? Just ask—we’ll share it with you.
If your forwarder or courier needs additional documentation (e.g., MSDS, INCI names, batch details), let us know and we’ll advise what’s available.

Need a hand?

We’re here to help—send us a quick message and we’ll happily help where we can. 🌿

If you see a stock delay notice on a product page, the item isn’t immediately available to ship. There’s a lead time while we restock before we can dispatch your order.

What a stock delay means

• The product is on its way from our supplier or in production, and we expect new stock soon.
• An estimated lead time is shown on the product page and again in your cart at checkout. This is our best current estimate and may shift if supplier or courier timelines change.

How it appears on the product page

You’ll see wording like Stock Delay X–Y days. This means that delay applies before we can dispatch your order, so please factor it into your timeline.

Example: Stock Delay 2–4 days means we expect a delay of 2–4 business days before dispatch.

If you order an item with a stock delay

• We reserve the item for you in the next incoming batch.
• Your order will dispatch once the delayed item arrives.
• You’ll receive a shipping confirmation with tracking as soon as your parcel leaves our warehouse.

🕒Timelines and updates

• We monitor supplier ETAs daily and update timing where possible.
• If the delay changes meaningfully, we’ll let you know and offer options.
• Delivery timeframes (for example, 1–2 or 2–3 business days) start after dispatch.

🛒Mixed carts (in-stock + delayed items)

• By default, we ship your order together when everything is ready.
• Prefer a split shipment (send in-stock now, delayed later)? Contact us—additional delivery fees may apply.
• Please note: during peak periods, we’re not able to accommodate split-shipment requests.

Need it sooner?

• Consider an alternative size or a similar product that’s in stock.
• Ask us for suggestions—we’re happy to recommend close matches.

💳Payments

• Payment is captured at checkout to secure your place in the incoming stock.
• If timing no longer works for you before dispatch, reach out and we’ll discuss options.

⚠️Peak periods

During sales and seasonal peaks, restock ETAs can move due to supplier and courier capacity. We’ll keep you informed and offer alternatives where we can.

❔FAQs

Can I cancel if the delay is longer than expected?
Yes—if your order hasn’t dispatched yet, contact us with your order number and we’ll discuss a refund, credit, or product swap.

Will my whole order be delayed?
If your cart includes a delayed item, the entire order waits to ship unless you arrange a split shipment with us.

Do delivery timeframes include the delay?
No—delivery estimates begin after we dispatch your order. The stock-delay period is separate.

Need a hand?

Send us a quick message with the product name (or link) and, if you’ve already purchased, your order number. We’ll share the latest ETA and options. 🌿

We’ve made paying simple and secure. Choose the option that suits you best.

💳 Cards

Credit, cheque, or debit cards
All card payments are 3D-Secure and processed safely via your choice of Peach Payments or PayFast.

Instant EFT

Pay directly from your bank account with Ozow
A quick, secure bank-to-bank payment—no manual proof of payment needed.

Mobile wallets and QR

SnapScan, Zapper, and Masterpass
Pay by scanning a QR code at checkout (secured by Peach Payments and PayFast).

RCS store cards

Use your RCS card via PayFast
Select PayFast at checkout and choose RCS to complete payment.

Interest-free instalments

PayJustNow or PayFlex
Split your purchase into manageable, interest-free instalments. Choose PayJustNow or PayFlex at checkout and follow the prompts.

💵EFT or cash deposit

Prefer to pay offline?
You’re welcome to make a regular EFT or a cash deposit at any FNB ATM.

Note: Orders paid by EFT/cash deposit are dispatched once funds reflect in our account (this can take 1–2 business days depending on your bank). Please use your order number as the payment reference.

Gift vouchers

Have an Essentially Natural gift voucher?
Enter your voucher code at checkout in the Discount code or gift card field and click Apply.

See the full payment guide

For details, screenshots, and FAQs for each method, view our full Payment Options page here: 
Payment Options

💡Good to know

• All online payments are encrypted and processed by trusted gateways.
• For Ozow, PayJustNow, PayFlex, SnapScan, Zapper, and Masterpass, you’ll be guided through their secure flows.
• If a payment is declined, try another method or contact your bank to confirm 3D-Secure/limit settings.
• For EFT/cash deposit, please use your order number as the payment reference.

❔FAQs

Can I combine a gift voucher with another payment method?
Yes—if your voucher doesn’t cover the full amount, you can pay the balance with any other available method.

Do you store my card details?
No—payments are handled by our gateways (Peach Payments/PayFast). We don’t store full card data.

When will my EFT/cash deposit order ship?
As soon as your payment reflects in our account. This usually takes 1–2 business days.

Can I pay on delivery?
Sorry, no. Before an order can be processed by our warehouse team, orders have to be placed and paid for online.

Do you accept SWIFT Forex payments?
Yes, we do! You're welcome to use SWIFT Forex payments. Please just note that all bank charges will be for your account and won’t be shared on our side. For smaller orders, it’s usually more cost-effective to use a card payment instead.

Need a hand?

Have a question about a payment option or ran into a hiccup at checkout? Reach out anytime and we’ll guide you. 🌿

Paying by EFT is simple and secure. Here’s exactly what to do.

⚡Quick steps

1. At checkout, choose EFT as your payment method and click complete order.

2. The next page will display our bank details for your transfer.

3. You’ll also receive two emails: your order confirmation and an EFT payment instructions email (with the same banking details).

4. Make the EFT payment and use your current Essentially Natural order number as the payment reference.

5. Select the option when making payment to send proof of payment directly from the bank to [email protected].

📌Important requirements

• Use your current order number as the payment reference (this links your payment to your order).
• We can only accept a proof of payment when sent directly from the bank, all banks allow for this option when making payment.
• Copied text, screenshots, or forwarded emails can’t be accepted.

Bank details for EFT

Bank: FNB
Branch no.: 250355 (Rivonia)
Account name: The Essentially Natural Domain
Account no.: 62492496768
Account type: Business Cheque / Current
Proof of payment: [email protected]

What happens next

• We’ll process your EFT as soon as your bank-generated PDF POP is received and funds reflect.
• Orders paid by EFT are dispatched after payment clears (your bank’s clearing times may apply).

💡Tips to avoid delays

• Double-check the account number and branch code before sending.
• Use the exact order number as your payment reference (no extra words or spaces).
• If your bank offers immediate payments, selecting it may speed up clearing.
• Send the POP directly from your bank to [email protected] 

Need a hand?

Reach out anytime—share your order number and we’ll guide you step by step. 🌿

Need a copy of an old invoice? You can grab it from your Order History in just a few clicks.

⚡Quick steps

1. Log in to your Essentially Natural account.

2. Open Order History.

3. Find the order you need and click Tax Invoice.

4. When the PDF opens, use your browser’s Download button to save it.

❔Don’t have an account or checked out as a guest?

No problem—pop us a message with your order number and the email used at checkout, and we’ll help you get a copy.

Still need a hand?

We’re here to help - pop us a WhatsApp or Email with your order number and we can assist from there.🌿

Prefer to collect directly from us? You’re welcome to pick up your order from our warehouse. Simply select Warehouse Pick-Up at checkout.

How it works

1. At checkout, choose Warehouse Pick-Up

2. Place your order

3. Wait for your ready-for-collection email 

4. Bring your order number when you come to collect

Tip: Waiting for the ready-for-collection email helps ensure your parcel is packed and waiting for you.

📍Where to find us

Unit 14, DuVille Industrial Park
8 Arum Lily Street, Fisantekraal Industrial
Durbanville, Cape Town, 7550
South Africa

Map link: Essentially Natural Warehouse

🕒Collection hours

Monday–Friday: 08:00–16:30
Closed on weekends and public holidays

What to bring

• Your order number (printed or on your phone)
• If someone else is collecting, please share the order number with them

On arrival

• Press 14 on the key pad at the Gate for us to let you in.
• Provide your order number and name
• We’ll grab your order and hand it over

💡Helpful notes

• Card payments only at the warehouse (no cash on site)
• Walk-in purchases are welcome, but browsing isn’t available and stock is subject to the day’s availability
• If you need to change your order or arrange a split shipment, message us first so we can advise what’s possible

Need a hand?

Have a question about collecting? Send us a quick message with your order number and we’ll guide you. 🌿

If there’s a Bob Box smart locker near you, you can choose it at checkout—safe, secure, and ready to collect when it suits you.

How to choose a Bob Box locker at checkout

1. Add items to your cart and go to checkout

2. Enter your shipping address

3. Scroll to Delivery options

4. Expand the menu (click the small down arrow)

5. Select Bob Box (locker) that suits you best

6. Complete checkout

Collection points are suggested based on the shipping address you entered, so you’ll see nearby options first. You can still pick a different point if you prefer.

How Bob Box collections work

1. We prepare your order and book it to your chosen locker.

2. When your parcel is delivered to the locker, you’ll receive a one-time PIN (OTP) by SMS/email. It’s a unique 6-digit code. 

3. Go to the locker, enter the 6-digit PIN on the keypad, retrieve your parcel, and close the door.

Keypad colour codes
• Green: PIN accepted
• Red: PIN invalid—try again
• Flashing/beeping: close the door until it clicks
• Purple: something went wrong—contact support (+27) 12 940 1063

When can I collect?

Locker access follows the location’s trading hours (not all lockers are 24/7). You can check hours for each locker on the Bob Box Locations page.

Finding your locker

Each locker has a unique name (for example, “Adam”) and is branded Bob Box. Your notification email includes the address and location details; you can also look up the address on the Locations page.

🚚Tracking and notifications

You’ll get shipping updates from us, and Bob Box will notify you when the parcel is in the locker with your 6-digit PIN. Use that code to collect.

💡Tips

• Bring the OTP/PIN with you
• Collect promptly once notified—lockers hold parcels for 3 days before they are returned to us
• If the keypad shows purple or you’re stuck, call Bob Box support at (+27) 12 940 1063 

Need a hand?

Feel free to reach out - we are happy to help where we can 🌿

Nothing makes us happier than a happy customer. We’ll always do our best to make sure you’re delighted with both your products and your experience. If something isn’t quite right, we’re here to help.

Returns within 14 days

If you change your mind about a product purchased from us, you’re welcome to return it within 14 days of delivery, provided it’s sealed, unopened, unused, and in the same condition as received.

What happens next

• Once your return arrives, we’ll inspect the product and confirm it’s safe to return to stock.
• We’ll then either credit your account with the purchase price or process a refund—the choice is yours.

🕑Timing for refunds

• Refunds can take up to 7 working days to reflect, depending on your bank.

Return fee for non-defective items

• For change-of-mind returns, a return fee of 10% or R50 (whichever is higher) applies to help cover costs.

How to start a return

1. Have your order number handy.

2. Contact us to request a return within 14 days of delivery.

3. We’ll share the next steps for sending your item back safely.

📄Read the full policy

For all conditions, exclusions, and helpful examples, please see our Return Policy

📌Please note

• Certain custom or special-order items cannot be cancelled or returned.
• Final sale products are not eligible for return or refund.

Need a hand?

Reach out anytime with your order number and what you’d like to return, and we’ll guide you from there. 🌿

Here’s how to request and complete a return in a few simple steps.

Step 1: Request your return

Email [email protected] within 14 days of receiving your order to request a return.
Please include your order number, the item(s) you’d like to return, and a brief reason so we can help quickly.

Step 2: Prepare for collection

We’ll arrange a courier collection from your address.

Before the courier arrives:
Pack the item securely for transport (original packaging if possible). The courier may decline collection if it’s not properly packaged.

Step 3: Inspection and refund/credit

Once your return reaches us, we’ll inspect the item to confirm it’s sealed, unopened, unused, and safe to return to stock.
When validated, we’ll either credit your account or issue a refund—your choice.

Timing: We process returns as soon as validation is complete; refunds typically reflect within 7 working days, depending on your bank.

Return fee (upliftment)

For non-defective, change-of-mind returns, a return upliftment fee of 10% or R50.00 (whichever is higher) will be deducted from the refund/credit to help cover handling and courier costs.

📄Read the full policy

For all conditions, exclusions, and helpful examples, please see our Return Policy

Need a hand?

Pop us an email with your order number and the item you’d like to return, and we’ll guide you through the next steps. 🌿

We’d love to work with you. To register as a stockist, please use our wholesale registration page:
https://essentiallynatural.co.za/pages/essentially-natural-wholesale

Who this program is for?

Our wholesale programme applies to Essentially Natural’s own house-brand range in retail sizes—ideal for resellers and small businesses who want trusted, natural products on their shelves.

How ordering works

1. Submit your details on the registration page above

2. We’ll email you your stockist details, the wholesale price list, and our order form once your application has been reviewed and accepted

3. Send completed wholesale orders to [email protected]

4. We’ll confirm stock, raise your invoice, and share payment instructions

Wholesale terms and conditions

Minimum order value
• R1000.00 per order

Free shipping
• Orders over R1500.00 within South Africa qualify for free delivery

Order processing
• Invoices are generated based on current pricing and stock availability
• Invoices are valid for seven (7) days from the issue date

Payment policy
• We don’t offer or accept credit accounts
• Orders are processed once payment reflects in our account, or on receipt of a bank-generated PDF proof of payment (POP) emailed to [email protected]

What to expect after registration

• Welcome email with your stockist details
• Current wholesale price list
• Order form and instructions
• Contact info for any questions or product guidance

Need a hand?

Questions about products or requirements? Email [email protected] and we’ll guide you.

We offer two ways for businesses and bulk buyers to save, depending on how often you purchase and what your needs are.

1. Business Discount Programme

Best for: Registered South African businesses that purchase regularly for production, manufacturing, resale, or operational needs.

How it works
• Complete our Business Discount application form
• Once approved, a discount is automatically linked to your company profile
• Simply shop online as normal and your approved discount will apply automatically whenever your order meets the minimum order value requirements

Apply here:
• Business Discount application: https://essentiallynatural.co.za/pages/essentially-natural-wholesale

Good to know
• Available to registered and operating South African businesses
• Minimum order value (MOV) of R3,000 applies
• Orders meeting the MOV qualify for free shipping
• Payments are upfront (no credit accounts available)
• Discounts do not combine with other promotions or sale pricing—the highest available discount will automatically apply

2. Business Builder Discount

Best for: Once-off or occasional bulk purchases without needing to apply for a business account.

How it works
• Spend R5,000 or more in a single order
• A 15% discount is automatically applied at checkout
• No application, forms, or approval required

Good to know
• Applies automatically when your cart reaches the qualifying threshold
• Ideal for larger occasional purchases across any product categories
• The highest applicable discount will apply if multiple discounts are available

💡Which option should you choose?

Choose the Business Discount Programme if you:
• Are a registered South African business
• Purchase regularly for your business
• Consistently place orders over the minimum order value.

Pick Business Builder if you:
• Only place larger orders occasionally
• Prefer not to complete an application
• Simply want an automatic discount on qualifying orders

Still unsure?

Tell us a little about your business and how often you purchase, and we'll happily recommend the most suitable option for you. 🌿

On our website, any product that is certified Food Grade by the supplier will be clearly indicated in the product listing. If you’re unsure about a product’s suitability for consumption, feel free to reach out to us - we’re happy to help!

Please note, our own premises are audited and certified safe for handling food products, ensuring the highest standards of safety and hygiene.

Food Grade
This refers to ingredients certified by an independent body (such as the FSA) as safe for human consumption. They are tested and produced under strict food-safe conditions. However, once repacked by a facility not certified by the Food Safety Authority (FSA), the product can no longer be sold or labeled as food grade - even if the original source was certified.

Food Safe
These ingredients are pure, originally food grade, and commonly used in food. They are handled in hygienic conditions, and our facility is inspected and approved as food safe by local municipal health authorities. However, as we are not a certified food production facility, we do not label these items as food grade. They are safe for personal use but not recommended for products intended for ingestion if being sold to the public.

Yes, they are different - and each serves a unique purpose.

Pure Essential Oils come straight from a single distillation of plant material with no alterations. This means the oil reflects the natural variations of the plant – things like weather, soil, and harvest timing can affect the scent, colour, or composition of each batch.

Standardised Essential Oils, on the other hand, are carefully adjusted for consistency. This may include:

• Blending multiple batches to balance out natural differences
• Reintroducing natural compounds (like linalool or menthol) to match a consistent chemical profile
• Removing certain components that may affect shelf life or scent

No synthetic additives are used - only naturally occurring components are adjusted. Both types are high quality; the choice simply depends on your needs. If you're formulating and need consistency, standardised may be the better fit. If you’re after the raw, unaltered essence of the plant, pure is perfect.

Most essential oils are extracted through steam distillation - a process that gently pulls the aromatic oils from plants like lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint.

Absolutes, on the other hand, are made using a solvent extraction method. This is typically used for delicate flowers (like jasmine or rose) that don’t do well with steam or don’t yield much oil through distillation.

Why are absolutes more expensive?

• It takes a large amount of plant material to produce a very small quantity.
• Many of these flowers are seasonal and hand-harvested.
• The process is labour-intensive, and the result is a very concentrated, luxurious extract that’s used sparingly in perfumery and high-end formulations.

The flaky texture you’re seeing can happen when shea butter warms slightly during storage or transport and then cools down too slowly. This causes the natural fats to crystallise, giving it that grainy consistency. The good news is that this is a normal characteristic of pure, unrefined shea butter and can easily be fixed at home.

Here’s how to restore it to a smoother, creamier texture:

1. Gently melt the shea butter using a double boiler, just until fully liquid.

2. Remove from heat right away.

3. Cool it quickly by placing the container in the fridge or freezer for about 15 to 30 minutes until it solidifies evenly.

Once it resets, it should feel soft and smooth again. For an extra creamy texture, you can also whip it lightly before it hardens completely.

To help prevent this from happening again, we recommend storing the shea butter in a cool, consistent environment and avoiding repeated melting and cooling

This can vary depending on the purpose, but as a general guideline, we recommend using 1–5% essential oil to 95–99% carrier oil.

If you’re new to using essential oils, it’s always best to start on the lower end of that range. The essential oils we stock are pure and therapeutic-grade, which means they’re very potent and should be used with care to avoid irritation or sensitivity.

Yes! Our bases come with their own preservative, so you can use them just as they are. But they’re also perfect for customising to suit your own needs.

If you add extra oils, botanicals, or other ingredients - especially water-based ones - we recommend adding additional preservative. The built-in preservative might not be enough to protect the extra ingredients.

Keep in mind: these bases aren’t concentrates meant to be diluted to a specific volume. Your final amount will be the base plus whatever you add.

They’re highly customisable - you can mix in extra carrier oils, essential oils, botanicals, and more. Just be careful not to add too much, as this can change the consistency or destabilise the formula. Some experimentation might be needed to get it just right!

On Essentially Natural, product listings will clearly indicate if a product is certified organic.

Organic certification is a rigorous and often costly process that many suppliers choose not to pursue - even if their products meet organic standards. In many cases, the farmers growing our essential oils, carrier oils, and botanicals use organic fertilizers and avoid harmful pesticides but haven’t gone through formal certification due to the high costs involved.

We always aim to offer natural, responsibly sourced products and are transparent about certification where it applies.

“Organic” means a product has passed official audits and certification, proving it was grown and processed using approved organic methods - like organic pesticides, non-GMO seeds, and sustainable farming practices.

At Essentially Natural, we’re deeply committed to supporting sustainable and ethical farming. However, we also understand that official organic certification can be time-consuming and costly, which sometimes makes good-quality products even more expensive, especially for small local growers.

So, while not all our products are certified organic, they are still grown or sourced in ways that are nurturing, sustainable, and low in chemical inputs.

If you’re ever unsure about a product, just ask - we’re happy to share the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) so you can see exactly what’s inside.

The aromatherapy standard is approximately 20 drops per 1 ml of essential oil.

That said, the exact number of drops can vary depending on the oil’s viscosity (thickness).

• Thinner oils (like citrus) may give you more drops per ml
• Thicker oils (like sandalwood or patchouli) will produce fewer drops per ml

So while 20 drops per ml is a great general guide, it's always good to adjust based on the specific oil you're working with.

Sometimes, synthetic really is better! We’ve chosen to stock high-quality, lab-produced mica powders because they’re a safer, more ethical alternative to natural mica.

Synthetic micas are made from heavy metal–free substrates and coloured with oxide pigments. They’re nature-identical to mica found in the earth, but because they’re created in a lab, they avoid the environmental damage and unethical mining practices often linked to natural mica.

They’re also eco-friendly, safe to use in cosmetics, and offer vibrant, consistent colour - without compromising on ethics or safety.

No, they’re quite different.

Mineral oil is a petroleum-derived byproduct - basically refined crude oil. It’s synthetic, non-renewable, and doesn’t provide any nutrients for your skin. While it’s inexpensive and often used as a barrier (like in baby oil), it can clog pores (comedogenic) and doesn’t offer skin support.

Carrier oils, however, are plant-based and renewable. They’re rich in skin-loving nutrients like fatty acids, vitamins, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Rather than just sitting on your skin, carrier oils nourish, soothe inflammation, and help maintain your skin’s natural barrier and microbiome. Plus, different carrier oils have different comedogenic ratings, so you can choose ones best suited to your skin type.

Yes! A hydrosol is a natural byproduct of steam distillation. During this process, steam passes through plant material, releasing aromatic compounds. When the steam cools, it separates into essential oil and hydrosol - the water-based part that carries subtle plant essence.

Floral waters, on the other hand, are made by blending a small amount of essential oil into water, often with a bit of alcohol to help the oil mix evenly.

Both are high-quality and effective, but hydrosols are considered “true distillates” and usually have more therapeutic benefits compared to floral waters.

The  Essentially Natural brand range of products is proudly certified Cruelty Free and Vegan. We are firmly against animal cruelty and make every effort to source products that have never been tested on animals.

That said, we also acknowledge that some modern products on the market today were developed with past animal testing to ensure safety. If you’d like to know more about the historical testing status of any specific product, please don’t hesitate to contact us - we’re happy to provide clarity.

At Essentially Natural, we have a very strict ingredients policy that guides everything we stock. Before adding any product, we carefully review every ingredient on the label to ensure it meets our high standards.

We are firmly against certain ingredients due to health and safety concerns, so you won’t find any of these in our shop or in the products we carry:

• BHA & BHT
• Cyclic silicones
• Diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA) and other ethanolamines
• Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea
• EDTA
• Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives 
• Lead and other heavy metals in any toxic amounts
• Mineral oils, paraffin and petrolatum
• Oxybenzone and other chemicals sunscreens
• Parabens
• Phthalates 
• Propylene glycol & butylene glycol
• SLS and SLES
• Sulfates 
• Synthetic harmful colourants 
• Synthetic fragrances
• Talc
• Toluene
• Triclosan 

This list evolves as new scientific research emerges, and we continuously update our standards to offer you the safest and healthiest options.

If you’re interested in exploring better, safer alternatives, please feel free to contact us - we’re happy to help you find what works best for you.

Not at all - and we completely understand your concern.

Many conventional cosmetics use synthetic preservatives like parabens, which are effective at preventing mould and bacteria but have raised questions about their impact on our health over time.

That said, not all preservatives are bad. At Essentially Natural, we prioritise gentler, naturally derived preservatives that are both skin-friendly and effective. While natural doesn’t always mean completely risk-free, we carefully select preservatives with a low chance of causing irritation.

Since everyone’s skin is unique, some people may still be sensitive to certain ingredients - which is why we always recommend doing a patch test before trying a new product or ingredient.

Essentially Natural was founded on the basis of stocking only natural and non-toxic, non-harmful products and we have not compromised our mission since. That's why we have one of the strictest ingredients policies out there: before we list any item our product specialists scrutinize every ingredient. Only products where all ingredients are of a natural and non-toxic origin pass through. If 99% of the ingredients are fine but one isn't, then that product does not get listed.

• All of our essential oils, carrier oils and aromatherapy products are 100% pure.
• Our dried botanicals are just that, pure plant material, no fillers.
• Ready-to-use items are all checked for any nasties.

Our DIY ingredients are all of natural origin and safe.

We strive to list only safe, biodegradable and of-natural-origin surfactants, preservatives, emulsifiers and all other ranges of DIY ingredients. Despite high demand we have decided not to list a number of popular ingredients because they simply do not measure up to our strict standards. We do not compromise when it comes to health and the environment.

Ingredients You Won't Find At Essentially Natural

Essentially Natural was built on the foundation of an ultra strict ingredients policy. It is our number one consideration before stocking any product: we scrutinise each and every ingredient on the label. We are against the following ingredients and you won’t find them on our shop:

• BHA & BHT
• Cyclic silicones
• Diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA) and other ethalomines
• Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea
• EDTA
• Formaldehydes 
• Lead and other heavy metals in any toxic amounts
• Mineral oils, paraffin and petrolatum
• Oxybenzene and other chemicals sunscreens
• Parabens
• Phthalates 
• Propylene glycol & butylene glycol
• SLS and SLES
• Sulfates 
• Synthetic harmful colourants 
• Synthetic fragrances
• Talc
• Toluene
• Triclosan 

This list is continuously evolving based on scientific data and evidence based studies.

Misunderstood Products

Certain products have a bad rep but are not in themselves harmful. We choose to base our product listing on scientific findings rather than myth.

Palm oil and palm oil derived ingredients: We don’t sell palm oil but sometimes a product may contain a palm oil derivative. We endeavour to source sustainably grown palm oil products wherever possible.

Certain silicone classes: Silicones come in different classes and while certain groups such as the cyclic silicones are a no-go, others such as dimethicone have been proven to be safe and even beneficial for skin.

Certain synthetic preservatives eg. phenoxyethanol. Preservatives are a necessary part of any product containing water, to prevent the growth of bacteria, microbes, yeast, fungi and other undesirable and potentially harmful species. We do allow certain preservatives that are suitable for natural formulation such as those certified by ECOCERT, COSMOS and other scientific and consumer safety bodies.

Mica powder: we have sourced high quality lab-produced mica powders. Synthetic micas are made from heavy-metal free mica and coloured with oxide pigments. Synthetic micas are nature identical to the mica found in the ground, except that by being produced in a laboratory they are eco-friendly, safe, and of course not mined - so unethical labour practices are not a concern. 

Sourcing Policy

We are passionate about supporting local and we source all our products from South African based companies. Wherever possible we source from sustainably grown crops which support local jobs and do not harm the environment.

GMO Products

We will list wherever a product is certified GMO free.

Organic Products

We will list wherever a product is certified, or unverified organic.

Organic certification is an extremely costly exercise which many companies simply cannot afford to do even though their products would otherwise qualify. Many farmers from whence our essential oils, carrier oils, botanicals and other products come from use organic fertiliser and non-harmful pesticides; but they have not yet verified their product with a certification body.

Vegan Products

The vast majority of our products are derived from plant sources and are vegan friendly. The  Essentially Natural brand range of products is proudly vegan and certified cruelty free.

Cruelty Free

We are categorically against animal cruelty and we try our very best to source products that have not been tested on animals. The  Essentially Natural brand range of products is proudly certified cruelty free.

We however acknowledge that we live in a modern society where many of the advanced products we use daily are in existence thanks to animal testing to make sure they are safe for use. Please contact us if you wish to confirm the animal testing status of a particular product.

Once your checkout is complete, your E-book will be available for immediate download from the order confirmation page.

You’ll also receive an email with a download link sent automatically from our system. If you don’t see it in your inbox, please check your spam or promotions folder.

If you still can’t find your E-book, feel free to contact our support team, and we’ll gladly assist you.

It’s completely normal for certain carrier oils to solidify or appear cloudy when exposed to cooler temperatures. This happens because some oils naturally contain higher levels of saturated fats or waxes that solidify when the temperature drops.

For example, oils like Coconut Oil, Baobab Oil, or Moringa Oil may become thicker or even turn solid in colder weather.

Simply place the bottle in a warm water bath and the oil will return to its normal liquid state without affecting its quality or benefits.

Essential oils are natural plant extracts, and just like crops or wines, their characteristics can vary slightly from batch to batch. These variations are influenced by several natural factors, including:

• Climate and Soil Conditions: Changes in temperature, rainfall, and soil composition can affect how a plant grows and the chemical compounds it produces.

• Harvest Time: The stage of growth at which the plant is harvested can influence the oil’s aroma and colour. For example, lavender harvested earlier may smell lighter and more floral, while later harvests may have a deeper, more herbaceous scent.

• Extraction Method: The way the oil is distilled or pressed can also impact its final appearance and aroma. Slight differences in pressure, temperature, or duration can lead to subtle variations.

• Storage and Age: Over time, essential oils may deepen in colour or develop a richer scent, especially if exposed to light or air.

These natural differences don’t mean the oil is of poor quality, in fact, they’re a sign that your essential oil is a pure, natural product, not a synthetic or standardised blend. Each batch reflects the unique growing conditions of its origin, making every bottle a little different and special.

Founded in 2014 by cousins Janet and Vicki, Essentially Natural emerged from a growing awareness of needing to take control of what we put into and onto our bodies, and into our environment. Our mission? To inspire others to embrace natural, sustainable choices by providing a platform for high-quality, planet- and people-friendly products.🌿

Our journey and growth

While our core goal remains unchanged – offering the best in natural products – we’ve evolved and expanded. We’re guided by a strict ingredients policy in order to offer premium ingredients for your wellness, skincare, haircare, and home product creations, empowering you on your DIY journey. Quality ingredients, ethical sourcing, and environmental responsibility in every purchase.

Our commitments

• Strict Ingredients Policy: we adhere to a rigorous ingredients policy ensuring all products are natural and non-toxic.
• Transparency: we believe in full ingredient disclosure.
• Sustainability: we’ve significantly expanded our eco-friendly packaging options, recognising that true sustainability encompasses both product and packaging.
• Social and Environmental Responsibility: we actively support causes aligned with our values, giving back to our community and environment.
• Knowledge Sharing: our Resource Centre offers free access to recipes and formulas, inspiration and advice, and valuable how-to information to support you in your DIY journey. 

Our core values

• Local Support: we source all products within South Africa, championing local industry and fair trade practices.
• Continuous Learning: we’re committed to ongoing research and sharing our findings with our community.
• Customer Trust: we prioritise honesty and transparency in all customer interactions.
• Product Integrity: we only sell products we use and believe in ourselves.

Products with purpose. Business with intent.

At Essentially Natural, we’re more than just a business – we’re a community intent on powering towards a healthier, more sustainable future. Together, let’s make natural and non-toxic living the norm, not the alternative.

Learn more

Who we are • The One Percent Movement • Our Ingredients Policy • The Brands We Love • Recipes & Inspiration: The Blog (Resource Centre)

If you’d like help choosing ingredients or getting started, send us a quick message – our team is always happy to help. 🌿

Launched in 2021, The One Percent Movement is our way of giving back together with our community. Fueled by public donations and in partnership with incredible NPOs, it supports projects that nourish, uplift, and restore dignity.

What it is

The name says it all: 1% of every order is donated to the Movement. Your everyday purchases quietly add up to real impact—whether your cart is small or large. Alongside this built-in giving, we welcome additional contributions from anyone who wants to do more. Together, these small, steady acts fund hands-on projects that change lives.

What we’ve achieved so far

• Feeding with dignity: food drives, thousands of nutritious meals, and refurbishment of soup kitchens in Fisantekraal. 
• Supporting the supporters: caring for the women who run local soup kitchens with workshops, creativity, and much-needed TLC. 
• Greening and growing: hundreds of trees planted; school playgrounds and community outdoor spaces brightened and made welcoming.
• Restoring community spaces: refurbishing staff rooms and shared areas to be functional and beautiful.
• Caring for animals: donations and shop refurbishments that help fund veterinary care. 
• Sharing warmth: clothing and knitwear drives for people experiencing homelessness and for under-resourced new moms. 
• Investing in kids: stationery drives, read-aloud days, and opportunities that spark learning and imagination. 
• Rallying community support: markets and events that raise funds and bring people together. 

How you can help

Every bit counts. You can support by donating money or goods—or by sharing your skills. 

Ways to contribute
• Donations of any size
• Non-perishable food
• Clothes, knitwear, linen, homeware, furniture
• Skills: builders, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, handy people—there’s always a place to help

Want to donate or get involved?

If you’d like more information on current projects or want to lend a hand, contact:
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone/WhatsApp: 073 274 1915 

You’ll also find a Donate Now button on the Movement page if you prefer to contribute directly online.

Why it matters

We’ve learned that a little goes a long way: with elbow grease, creativity, and a shared desire to do good, small contributions bloom into real change for people, animals, and community spaces. 

We’re serious about compassionate choices. Our Beauty Without Cruelty (BWC) endorsement applies to the Essentially Natural house-brand range only. These products are registered with BWC, audited for humane (no animal-testing) status, vegan-friendly, and free from animal by-products—a registration process rather than a traditional “certification.” If you’d like to pursue your own BWC endorsement, we’re happy to help where we can.

What BWC is (and why it matters)

Beauty Without Cruelty South Africa is an animal-rights organisation advocating for humane, non-animal-tested products and practices since 1975. Their endorsed brands appear in the BWC Humane Guide after passing BWC’s audit and criteria.

Our cruelty-free promise (for EN branded products)

• EN house-brand products carry BWC registration and are audited for humane status.
• Our range is vegan-friendly and free from animal by-products.
• We assess the suppliers and brands we stock against our cruelty-free standards.

Thinking of applying for your own BWC endorsement?

Great idea! Here’s the overview, based on BWC’s public guidance:

BWC criteria in a nutshell
• Self-imposed “fixed cut-off date” (at least 5 years prior to application) for any animal-tested ingredients.
• Written assurances from all ingredient suppliers that no animal testing occurred after your cut-off date.
• Parent and subsidiary companies must meet the same criteria. 

How to apply
• Contact BWC with your business/organisation name and why you’re suitable for endorsement, plus a website link if relevant (Apply for Endorsement). BWC will guide you through the audit and documentation. 

Tip: Once endorsed, your company is listed in the Humane Guide, making it easier for shoppers to verify your status. 

How we can support your application

• If you’ve purchased raw materials from us (including non-EN brand items), we can sign the BWC form section confirming the ingredients you bought from Essentially Natural.
• BWC may ask for extra product information (this is uncommon); we’ll cooperate where possible.
• Email us the BWC form and the cut-off date they’ve provided, and we’ll help from there.

❔FAQs

Does EN’s BWC endorsement cover the other brands you stock?
No. Our BWC endorsement applies only to the EN house-brand range. Other brands must hold and manage their own endorsement.

Is BWC a “certification”?
BWC refers to endorsement/registration with an audit against their humane criteria. The emphasis is on verifying no animal testing and listing brands in the Humane Guide. 

Why does BWC say “humanely manufactured” rather than “cruelty-free”?
Because many raw materials were historically tested at some point in time; BWC verifies that no animal testing occurs after your fixed cut-off date. 

How strict is BWC?
BWC is recognised (alongside Leaping Bunny) as a strict third-party auditor; unverified bunny icons aren’t reliable indicators. 

Getting started

• Apply for BWC endorsement (Apply for Endorsement). 
• Explore current endorsed brands (Humane Guide). 
• Have questions for BWC? Reach out via their contact page. 

Need a hand from us?

Send us the BWC form (and your proposed cut-off date), plus the list of ingredients purchased from Essentially Natural. We’ll complete our section and support your application with care. 🌿

Are you registered on the Central Supplier Database (CSD)?
Yes, we are officially registered on the Central Supplier Database (CSD). Our CSD registration number is MAAA1565628.

Why is CSD registration important?
CSD registration allows us to supply goods and services to government departments, state-owned entities and municipalities.