AltCon was invited by Weleda to visit their biodynamic gardens in Germany.  Here’s Part One in an exclusive series by our green globetrotter and roving reporter, Jessica B. Howell.

Lined along the beauty and skincare shelves of your local Whole Foods—or these days, even Target—is a brand that most posh purists have fallen for.  And while they’ve been a stable staple since I can remember, I had no idea that Weleda (crafter of the cult favorite, Skin Food) has a history that dates back to 1921 and stems from a philosophy called anthroposophy.  I know… anthro—what?  The term refers to the link that exists between the human body (mind and soul included) and the world around us; essentially, it’s another level of consciousness.

And if that’s not enough to lead you to believe that Weleda is a serious skin care company, consider the fact that the company was founded as a pharmaceutical laboratory.  Pretty deep stuff for a skin care company, no?  Since the 1930s, the brand has been doling out specialty medicines that come straight out of the garden, treating ailments as non-threatening as bruises to as critical as cancer (and with mistletoe, no less).

This week, while Congress began the fight to disclose toxins in personal care products, the concept of truly clean skin care resurfaced. And unlike the many small-scale, eco beauty options that the greener among us have familiarized ourselves with, Weleda boasts an impressive history coupled with a worldwide presence.  Best of all, they’ve stayed true to their core values… having yet to be swiped up by behemoth like Clorox (ahem, Burt’s Bees).

So, why am I dishing on Weleda?   The company recently chose to walk the walk by inviting us as part of a select group of bloggers to Scwabish Gmund, Germany, for a visit to their Biodynamic Gardens.  There’s a lot to share with you, since I’m betting you care just as much as I, regarding what goes into the products we slather on our skin… so I’ll be posting a couple more updates (and video, too) to give you a better feel for the company and the products sold here in the U.S.  Feel free to jump in and let me know if you’ve used the products, and if so, let me know if you’re a fan of the brand.

Related:  previously on altCon
(1/16/07)  Weleda – Working with Body, Soul and Spirit