Radice Apothecary’s hydrating Myrrh Cream

A rich moisturiser with an equally rich Tuscan history

To my long list of Tuscan favourites I have recently added Radiće Apothecary – an under-the-radar organic brand, owned by third-generation Italian pharmacist and herbalist Jasmine Urzia. And it is her Myrrh Cream ($75 for 30ml, pictured) that I am particularly fond of.

After being tipped off about this ultra-lightweight anti-ageing lotion, I have been using it morning and night. The artisanal blend comprises myrrh resin (infused with oils and left to bake in the Italian sun), sandalwood, extracts of avocado and rosehip (which help strengthen skin), shea butter, vitamin E, hemp and jojoba oils. It also contains St John’s wort, a key skin-healing component. Myrrh Cream has a thin, almost milky texture, and I’ve been delighted with its hydrating effects, especially around my eyes.

Although Urzia is now based in New York, she is carrying on the family tradition started by her grandmother, crafting every lotion herself in small batches – all containing organic ingredients from the same Tuscan garden. Radiće Apothecary products are not widely available, nor are they sold online – you have to place an order via email. But as Urzia likes to personally connect with her customers, and even encourages email exchanges about everything from the anti-wrinkle properties of hemp oil to the use of black cumin-seed oil to treat eczema and rosacea, this only adds to the experience. As do the simple 1oz brown jars and bottles, which, helpfully, are airline-approved.