06/06/2026
This is a little bit of a spoiler for the new seasonal special that I am about to launch ✨🌞
Most of you may know by now, but I was born in Manaus, Amazonas State, in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon rainforest. I was brought to this world by my grandmother's own hands, Grandma Djanira.
She was a traditional midwife and a woman of faith who delivered and blessed both her community and I with her knowledge. Fact is, I have been D Y I N G to bring some of her cherished ingredients to the treatments I offer at Hikari.
This body treatment gathers ingredients from the tree that crowns the Amazon rainforest: "Bertholletia excelsa". Locally, it is known as castanheira (kah-stain-YAY-rah, if you want to risk pronouncing in portuguese) and is very easy to spot as it is a giant tree reaching up to 200ft.
The castanheira reproduces by dropping these coconut-like wooden shells (called ouriço) from the top of the tree. This shell full of nuts is then opened by the only rodent with teeth powerful enough for the task: the cutia.
Same as the squirrels, the cutia will bury the nuts to eat later. Same as the squirrels (bless their amnesia), they forget some of these hiding spots and their snack ends up becoming a new tree.
The castanha:
- is rich in tryptophan, which supports body's production of serotonin and melatonin - hormones related to the feeling of happiness and the quality of sleep;
- is a powerhouse of antioxidants that boost-up the immune system and reduce inflammation;
- Nourishes from within: when consumed, its rich supply of omega-3, selenium, and vitamin E helps balance blood pressure, cholesterol, and supports brain health.
- Transforms the skin: When applied topically, its omega 6, 9, and selenium deeply hydrate, protect the skin barrier, and stimulate structural proteins like collagen.
I am on the final touches for the protocol, so make sure to stay tuned and sn**ch your spot for living this experience yourself!
&r
