Who we are

Hi my name is Hannah and I am the founder of Thistle Cottage Apothecary.

Scientist- turned-naturopath, mum, and lover of nature, skin health, and that quiet moment in the bathroom that feels like you can finally exhale.

Thistle Cottage began from two places: my deep love for science and my growing belief in gentle, natural support for our bodies.. especially as women and mothers.

I have a degree in Analytical Chemistry and Forensic Science, and I have spent more than a decade working across immunobiology, stem cell and embryology labs, and clinical research for major hospitals and research institutes. I’ve seen medicine change lives.. and I’ve also seen where it doesn’t always hold us in the ways we need.

When I became a mum, I had my world shaken by birth and postpartum challenges. Like so many women, I found myself navigating a system I once worked in, and feeling a little unseen in the process. That experience lead me to explore natural therapies, combining my scientific background with a heart-led curiosity about herbal medicine and the wisdom of traditional practices.

And honestly? it changed everything. I softened, I questioned, I learned and I began to see the beauty in balance… where science and nature work together, not against each other.

What We Believe

At Thistle Cottage, we believe:

  • In evidence-based skincare made with real ingredients your skin recognises

  • In blending clinical knowledge with plant wisdom

  • In slow, intentional beauty that honours your nervous system as much as your skin

  • In products created with heart, care, and respect for the women using them- especially mothers who give so much and deserve gentle support in return

What We Do

Every product is handmade in small batches, formulated with purpose and care…. no fillers, no shortcuts, no trends for the sake of trends.

Just nurturing, effective, natural skincare grounded in science and crafted with love, for skin that needs comfort, support and a moment to breathe.

Whether your soothing sensitive skin, rebuilding after pregnancy, or simply craving a ritual that feels like you again- I’m so glad you’re here.

This a space where science meets softness, where ingredients are chosen thoughtfully, and where every product is made with a deep belief that you deserve to feel at home in your skin.

Welcome…truly.

Here’s to gentle care, grounded science and women supporting women.

Hannah xx