It all began with Arpenik’s deep affection for the nature.
Arpenik Manukyan’s family enjoys hiking adventures, and they are very caring about the environment. Arpenik’s fascination with Armenian indigenous herbs and their healing properties grew from the understanding that nature contains a lot of remedies and advantages waiting to be discovered, nurtured, and harnessed.
She would pick wild herbs and flowers while hiking in the mountains crafting tea blends to share with friends. Their enthusiastic response inspired her to transform her hobby into a business, producing natural herbal teas.
In a household where men were usually the ones working outside the home, Arpenik and her daughters-in-law, who were primarily occupied with household tasks, recognized an opportunity to empower themselves and other women. They initiated the involvement of women in herb gathering, later expanding into cultivation. Importing diverse plant varieties like Moroccan and chocolate mint not only expanded their product offerings but also supported local women by providing seedlings and purchasing their yields. This decentralized approach lessened farming risks while enhancing community welfare.
Their progress is fueled by innovation, showcased by their latest product: honey-fermented mint tea, an exceptional sensory delight that sets them apart in the market. Their commitment to excellence and originality is demonstrated through continuous enhancements to production techniques and product display. With assistance from the USAID-funded RED-NEO Program, the family acquired machinery such as the motor block and dryer, which streamlined operations and satisfied rising demand, marking significant achievements in their entrepreneurial endeavors.