In the 15th century, apothecaries enjoyed a status in Europe as trusted medical practitioners, people who knew things. These all-in-one herbalists, midwives and surgeons included in their ranks notable people such as Nostradamus and Benedict Arnold. They gained notoriety throughout the centuries, performing medical-related functions in the communities in which they lived.
But with the 19th century, each medical practice had its own specialty and the apothecary functioned only as a pharmacist “” until now.
A new La Jolla business, Pharmaca is an integrative pharmacy, bringing back the values of an old apothecary system with herbs, homeopathy, acupuncture and even a compound-mixing pharmacist.
The store, which opened Sept. 6 at 7650 Girard Ave., practices naturopathic medicine, focusing on the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of a patient’s health.
Jeff Crutchfield, the full-service pharmacy manager, said he enjoys mixing compounds for the customers of Pharmaca and can fill any regular prescription. With a shelf of large jars full of powders, Crutchfield mixes together compounds for customers including pain medications, wrinkle creams, veterinary creams and bioidentical hormones, an alternative to hormone replacement therapy.
“It’s all about customization,” he said.
According to Pharmaca, the practice of compounding is a growing trend that dates back to apothecaries.
An integrative pharmacy is the newest concept in boutique pharmacies. Pharmaca opened with the goal of using various forms of preventive healthcare for its customers along with providing traditional pharmacological methods.
Along with the pharmacy, the store has an on-site acupuncturist and other specialists for its customers. The store also sells many specialty products “” from a yoga line to mineral cosmetics, said Ana Schladermundt, the store manager.
“We want to help our customers,” Crutchfield said.
Biodentical hormones are made from plants, but the pharmacists at Pharmaca still require a prescription. Some say this form of hormone replacement therapy is safer than other forms because it is natural.
Wrinkle creams can be tailored to the individual, with a prescription from a dermatologist, Crutchfield said.
Mostly topical pain medications can be compounded with a prescription, including anti-inflammatory creams, muscle relaxants, nerve blockers and analgesics, Crutchfield said.
The pharmacist can also compound a veterinary medicine, flavoring it for the pet with tuna or beef.
From prescriptions to mom and kids care to a line of beauty products called “Natural Beauty,” Pharmaca is a different type of pharmacy dedicated to helping its customer, Crutchfield said.
For info, call (858) 454-1337 or visit www.pharmaca.com.