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Our History

Our History

KIWIHERB FOUNDER: Phil Rasmussen  

M.Pharm., M.P.S., Dip. Herb. Med.; M.N.I.M.H.(UK),  F.N.Z.A.M.H.

Phil was brought up in Tokomaru Bay and Gisborne on the East Coast of the North Island of New Zealand, where there is a strong Maori population and there used to be more sheep than people. Nowadays there’s more Manuka and horticulture. From a young age he was surrounded by people with a love of growing things, including his parents who competed with each other to try and have the best tomatoes on the plate for Christmas day. However, it was only when he went to the UK and began to study Phytotherapy and for several years grew herbs and veges on allotments, that he learnt most about growing things.

Phil now lives on a half-acre property in West Auckland, not far from the Phytomed office and manufacturing facility in Avondale, and still loves to get his hands in the soil.

Phil has practiced as a Phytotherapist in Auckland for 25 years. He is the Founder and Technical Director of Phytomed Medicinal Herbs Ltd, a herbal healthcare manufacturer. Before pursuing herbal practice, Phil worked for more than 10 years as a Pharmacist, and undertook research on antidepressant drugs and serotonin.

Phil has a great passion for the use of NZ native plants. He has formulated the Kiwiherb range of natural and organic herbal products, the majority of which contain preferentially sourced NZ-grown ingredients. He works closely with local growers to source the highest quality herbs, and uses certified organic wherever possible. Phil has a strong belief in sharing the health-giving benefits of our native Rongoā. Phil is passionate about herbal practice, and for all families to enjoy good health with Kiwiherb.