Production process

The cultivation philosophy

The herb business Galloudus is located in beautiful Brittany, a region where nature still fully follows its own rhythm. Galloudus is part of a small-scale micro-farm in France that employs natural, agro-ecological methods to foster healthy soil, robust plants, and rich biodiversity.
Crops grown on the farm include elderflowers, elderberries, and various vegetables. The farm also hosts activities, such as courses on natural vegetable gardening, under the name *Van Bretonse Bodem* (From Breton Soil).
Over the years, Galloudus has built up a fine collection of various medicinal plants. Through the processes of cultivation, observation, and harvesting, the collection grows—as does the knowledge of and respect for each plant and the soil in which it grows.

For it is actually quite simple: everything that lives needs harmony.

A plant needs space, a suitable location, good neighbors, nutrients, water, and air. Just like animals, a plant thrives best when conditions are right.

A plant’s inherent strength lies within the plant itself; we do not need to instill that strength. What we *can* do is create the best possible conditions. By ensuring a healthy, living soil and giving the plant the space to grow in its own way, it can fully develop its natural qualities.

That is why great care is taken regarding the soil, the environment, and the timing of the harvest. When plants are harvested at the right moment and subsequently processed by hand, as many of their natural qualities as possible are preserved. That care and attention are ultimately reflected in the herbal blends—and thus benefit the animal.

That is where the true power of an herb begins for Galloudus.
My aim is to provide a space where heirloom and native plants can thrive—paying close attention to the plant, but above all, to the soil. For soil is far more than just the earth in which a plant grows; it is a living, ingenious ecosystem and the foundation of everything that springs from it.

And that is precisely what continues to fascinate me: the interplay between soil and plant, the microbiome, environmental influences, and the unique characteristics of each plant. The more you learn, the more you discover just how much there is yet to learn. I will likely still be making discoveries twenty years from now.

 

A focus on quality

Alongside a love for and dedication to nature, there is, of course, a practical side. To ensure the highest standards of plant quality and safety, the soil is regularly tested for factors such as nutrients, minerals, and potential contaminants.

Cultivation follows natural and agro-ecological principles as much as possible. This approach draws on the expertise of Iris, who grows the vegetables and elderberry for *Van Bretonse Bodem* on the farm. Iris studied at the De Warmonderhof biodynamic agricultural school and holds a clear vision: building healthy, rich, and living soil while practicing circular agriculture and respecting natural processes.

This commitment to care extends beyond the harvest. Each year, the tinctures and powders are tested for potential contaminants—such as harmful bacteria, fungi, heavy metals, and substances like aflatoxin. These checks are part of the HACCP production system and help ensure the safety and quality of the products.

The tinctures are made using organic alcohol, locally produced by a distillery. The water used during processing is also carefully treated: it is filtered via osmosis and subsequently energized.

What truly matters in the end
For us, it ultimately comes down to more than just a high-quality herbal product.
Of course, we want animals to derive the maximum benefit from the herbs and for the products to contribute to their well-being. But the origin of these plants is just as important.

We don’t simply want to take from nature; we want nature to become more beautiful, richer, and healthier as a result.
By focusing on the soil, biodiversity, the plants, and cultivation methods, a virtuous cycle is created. Healthy soil fosters strong plants. Strong plants are harvested and processed with care. And that natural vitality can then be passed on to the animal.

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The meaning of Galloudus
The name Galloudus comes from Breton, a language with Celtic roots. It is a Breton adjective describing something characterized by great power, high intensity, or significant influence and meaning—much like one might speak of a potent medicinal remedy.
And that is precisely what Galloudus stands for: a power that does not need to be manufactured, but is already present in nature.

A power that begins in the soil, grows within the plant, and makes its way to the animal with care. A power straight from nature.

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