Our Heritage
Ubuntu Traditional Balms emerged from a cherished legacy of remedies passed down from a modest family-owned pharmacy that has been in operation since 1948. This renowned pharmacy has consistently served its neighborhood for decades. The original chemist crafted balms specifically to meet the needs of his patients, blending modern pharmaceutical knowledge with traditional apothecary practices to create many popular formulations. The effectiveness of these balms spread through word mouth, gaining popularity throughout greater Cape Town area. People traveled from afar to buy their favorites, which relief for ailments like nappy rash, boils, and chesty coughs. The secret formula for these balms has been handed down through generations of pharmacists and continues to benefit the community today. The Ubuntu brand ethos is captured in the slogan ‘Old Remedies Reborn’ - new life into trusted solutions. Our mission is to preserve effective traditional family remedies for future generations, raising awareness of the tried-and-true solutions our grandparents relied on for children's health. Our guiding principles include: - Producing high-quality products under strict formulation and hygiene standards. - Handmade in small batches by a pharmacist using 75-year-tested formulas. - Supporting women from the community and collaborating with other small African businesses.
Meet the maker
Ilse Morkel graduated from UWC with a pharmacy degree in 2010 and became a Prescribing Pharmacist in 2018. She specializes in skin conditions like eczema and fungal infections, with 15 years of experience, and is the Director of Braude's Pharmacy in Cape, known since 194 for its specialized creams. Ilse tutors three pharmacy students and manages a clinic with her sisters. She was nominated in the 2020 Adcock Sponsors of Brave Campaign and appeared on Kyknet’s Duidelik Dapper Show. Trained by her father-in-law, she also created Ubuntu, sister brand featuring traditional balms. Outside work, she enjoys supporting her children, Victoria and Luke, in sports and loves hiking, art, languages and vintage items.




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