I
n early traditions bees were believed to have
originated in paradise and were known as
`little servants of Gods'. So it seems
appropriate that a colony resides with the
monks at Saint Augustine's Abbey, Ramsgate.
Benedictine monks should strive to `live by
the labour of their own hands', and at Saint
Augustine's, honey from the bees has been sold
successfully since 2004. Furthermore, Brother
Anselm's recent experiments with beeswax
have produced a popular furniture polish � and
an enticing natural and organic range of lip
balm, and hand and skin cream.
It might seem odd to imagine a monk slaving
over vats of hand cream and lip balm, but
Brother Anselm has no qualms about branching
out into natural beauty products. In the extremes
of our British weather many of us suffer from dry
lips or skin � and some of the monks have even
been using the products themselves!
The best selling lip balm is `natural', but you
can also try tingly peppermint, the refreshing
citrus of lemon or orange, aniseed, or the even
aniseed with lemon. Reviews of the product have
been very complimentary: "The most perfect lip
balm! Not sticky. Works for hours in my dry
Arizona climate," wrote one satisfied customer,
and there have been several repeat orders.
The hand and body cream is light � it sinks
into the skin without leaving a greasy feel, and
yet moisturises beautifully. You can select from
exotic coconut or vanilla, the more traditional
lavender or honey and rose � or if you prefer
your products unscented stick with simply
`natural'. "I have tried so many creams over the
years and none match up to these. I even use it
on my face. The price is pretty attractive too! I
would say these skincare products are truly
divinely inspired!" says one convert.
Brother Anselm has been selling online (as
far as Finland, Australia and Austria!) but
regrets that it isn't easy to buy over the counter
in Thanet. However, it is possible to knock at
the door, where some products are kept � and
he can be contacted by phone if you wish to
arrange a purchase.
www.ramsgatebenedictines.com
Tel 01843 593045
Words: Kaz Russell
Pictures: Marie Muscat-King
Beauty Secrets of the Bees
people
Honey-making at St Augustine's Abbey
The wonderful skin care
products made by the monks
Brother Anselm, one of the monks
developing honey and beauty products
Winter 2009 49

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