Dhuwi Bush Medicine - Gilay Collection

Drawing upon Aboriginal traditional bush medicine, with a deep sense of connection to Country, our new range of healing and wellness products thoughtfully crafted by Dhuwi.

A collaboration of Creative Cultural Facilitator/Artist Arkeria Armstrong and Aboriginal Healer & Wellness Facilitator Lee Crouch - Dhuwi means 'spirit' in Gamilaraay language.

Five collections, each comprising essential oil blends, spray mists, woven medicine bags and wellness packs.

Gilay Collection:

giIay, 'the moon', symbolises the energy of our sacred waterways, paying tribute to women's wisdom, guiding us toward wholeness through the embrace of the feminine dimension which represents our life force.

Gilay emphasises the importance of balancing emotions, intimacy and intuition. It supports individuals in their inner child work and the release of trauma. The fragrance transports one to connect with the scent of saltwater and freshwater, encouraging a profound process of deep listening.

Gilay Oil Roller - Combining the unique properties of Lemongrass, Lemon Myrtle and Rivermint, enhanced by the anti-inflammatory benefits of emu oil. Suggested use: Warm the blend under hot sunlight or under hot water. Rub the roller onto the palm of your hand, rub your hands together and breathe in.

Gilay Mist - emphasising the importance of balancing emotions, intimacy, and intuition, supporting individuals in their inner child work and the release of trauma. This fragrance transports one to connect with the scent of saltwater and freshwater, encouraging a profound process of deep listening. This mist serves both general and therapeutic purposes, making it perfect for hydrating the skin, just as rain nourishes Country.

Medicine Bag - each woven piece emulates the shape of gilay when it is completely illuminated, this circular piece also celebrates the fullness of pregnancy and its connection to the birthing journey and inner child. Handwoven from sustainably sourced raffia from Madagascar, hand-dyed with a harmonious blend of natural and non-toxic dyes. Medicine bag measures approx 3-5cm diameter, is attached to an adjustable, hand twisted hemp cord.

Wellness Pack - contains 10ml roller bottle, 100ml mist, handmade woven basket, hand size possum skin, small clay disk diffuser and 5ml diffuser oil bottle.

Created respectfully on the lands of the Taungurung / Dhudhuroa and Dja Dja Wurrung peoples by Dhuwi.

Background:

Aboriginal traditional medicine is one of the world’s oldest healing systems, practised by Australia’s First Nations peoples for over 60,000 years. This ancient knowledge passed down through generations, is deeply intertwined with the land, spirituality, and the holistic well-being of individuals and communities. Aboriginal healing practices aim to restore balance among the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health with Country at its core.

A fundamental component of Aboriginal traditional medicine is the use of native plants and natural resources, often referred to as bush medicine. Over millennia, Aboriginal peoples have developed a profound understanding of the medicinal properties of Australia’s unique plants. Many of the plants found in the Australian bush possess remarkable healing qualities.

In Aboriginal culture, healing goes beyond merely treating physical symptoms; it also encompasses emotional and spiritual well-being. Many traditional healing practices centre around ceremonies that invoke spiritual guidance and seek to cleanse negative energy. 

Other healing practices include song, dance, and storytelling. These are not only forms of cultural expression but also methods to pass on knowledge and connect with ancestors. Such ceremonies often occur on sacred land or in areas of deep cultural significance, reinforcing the bond between individuals, communities, and their Country.