La Bohemia Natural
by Monica Bencomo
Homewise Community Development Coordinator
La Bohemia Natural specializes in locally made, organic, and all natural beauty and health care products, such as toners, oils, soaps, and herbal mixtures. They have been in business for six years, but moved their physical location to Barelas about a year ago. With the Covid-19 business restrictions currently in place, their physical business is closed; however, they are still selling their products online. I first became acquainted with their products a couple of years ago when I was given their Cucumber & Aloe Goat’s Milk Body Lotion as a gift. I was immediately impressed by the quality of the product. The lotion was hydrating, without leaving a sticky residue, and the scent was natural and not overpowering. I became intrigued with the brand and was excited when they moved into Barelas. Recently I had a conversation with Marie Reyes, Founder and Lead Inventor of La Bohemia Natural, to talk about the business and how they have adapted to the current, non-essential business restrictions.Â
What is the background behind La Bohemia Natural?
My background is in medical sciences. My family is from Northern New Mexico and have practiced curanderismo for generations. I wanted to take an integrative approach and combine traditional healing practices with modern medicine. My sister, Kristie Quintana, and I run the business. She helps run the front end of the business, which includes events, production, and product ideas.
How did you end up in Barelas?
My father lives in Barelas and my grandfather worked at the Railyards in the 1950’s. I used to buy herbs from Maclovia at B Ruppe Drugstore and I became friends with her. I have also been involved with the Railyard Market, selling products and participated in some of their committees.
How has COVID-19 affected your business operations?
We do many community events and outreach. We had the Medicine for the People by the People event scheduled this month and two different markets, which is where we do most of our outreach. We offer workshops on how to make medicine, which includes prepping and extraction. We also have classes on how to identify plants that are medicinal in the wild. We had to put everything on hold and now we are only operating online.
How can people purchase your products right now?
You can order products on our website. We are offering all products at wholesale prices and we can provide no-contact drop off available in Albuquerque. You can inquire with us via website or social media if you are looking for something and don’t see it on our website.
What are your most popular products?Â
Our top products are our sensitive skin care products, specifically the face oils, goat milk lotions, and soap.
What do you like most about your work?
My whole life has been dedicated to improving people’s lives—it’s my driving force. I’m an educator and I work in the sciences. It’s very rewarding to help others.
If you are looking for locally made body products that are organic, plant-based and cruelty free, now is the time to try La Bohemia Natural! Supporting local business is more critical than ever right now. Check out their products and learn more about the company on their website. Also, find them on Facebook and Instagram: @labohemianatural.Â
