Where do you source your raw materials?

We source botanicals from a range of suppliers, from established producers to smaller independent farms and specialist distillers. Selection is guided by provenance, character, available documentation, and suitability within the archive.

How do you evaluate and document each batch?

We maintain available supplier documentation, batch information, and supporting records where provided. Documentation may include COA, COQ, origin information, or other supplier records. We review available information and maintain an evolving archive of documentation, but ARAU is not an independent testing or certification body.

What are the benefits of sourcing locally from ARAU?

Our Advantage: Sourcing internationally means dealing with long transit times, unpredictable customs, and tying up your cash flow in massive minimum orders. ARAU eliminates that burden. We house the inventory right here in Greater Vancouver, allowing you to buy exactly what you need, when you need it. You save capital, optimize your inventory management, and protect your lot consistency—all while enjoying fast local delivery.

Why does your collection change over time?

Our Curation: Our archive is intentionally fluid. Because we refuse to prioritize a rigid, bulky catalog over fresh lot integrity, our offerings evolve based on seasonal harvest yields and rigorous data verification. We only supply what is currently exceptional. If a botanical fails to meet our quality standards in a given season, we will pause its availability rather than compromise your standards. You are always getting an active, highly curated selection.

Where does ARAU ship, and what are the shipping rates?

ARAU currently ships exclusively within Canada and uses Canada Post as its primary carrier for standard shipments.
Within British Columbia (BC)

• Flat rate shipping: $8.80 on orders under $50 (pre-tax)

• Complimentary shipping on orders of $50 and over (pre-tax)

Rest of Canada

• Flat rate shipping: $18.80 on orders under $100 (pre-tax)

• Complimentary shipping on orders of $100 and over (pre-tax)

For select Business Account clients within the Greater Vancouver area, local fulfillment and delivery options may also be available.
Please refer to our Shipping Policy for complete details and current terms.

Do you have a minimum order requirement to purchase?

Our Accessibility: No. We believe curated botanicals should be accessible to anyone with the taste and ambition to use them. Whether you are a retail enthusiast purchasing a single bottle for personal inspiration, or a boutique brand sourcing for a production run, we have eliminated minimum order barriers. However, if you are a wellness studio, spa, creator, or KOL looking for deeper wholesale volume, co-branding, or creative partnerships, we offer an exclusive pipeline designed to scale with your vision.

What is the shelf life of your aromatics, and how should they be stored?

Our Preservation: Shelf life varies by botanical profile, storage conditions, and packaging format. Where applicable, products include lot references and best before guidance. For optimal quality, store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive temperature fluctuations.

How do you determine your pricing compared to other brands?

Our Value: Our pricing reflects thoughtful sourcing, available documentation, careful inventory management, and local Canadian availability. Rather than pursuing the largest catalogue, we focus on a curated archive of botanicals selected for provenance, character, and everyday relevance.

Are your botanical fluids safe for direct skin application or consumption?

Our Guidance: Some products within the archive are intended for direct topical application, while others require dilution or specialized use.

Please refer to individual product instructions and safety guidance before use. Essential oils should generally be diluted unless otherwise stated.

What do your different collection classifications mean?

Our Archive: ARAU organizes the archive into four distinct classifications:

• ARAU Curated — Essential selections that form the foundation of the archive.

• ARAU Reserve — Distinctive botanicals chosen for exceptional character, rarity, or seasonal availability.

• ARAU Heritage — Botanicals connected to traditional practices, historic origins, and cultural significance.

• ARAU Cru — Exceptional provenance and unique botanical expression.

How does ARAU evaluate botanical materials?

At ARAU, documentation forms an important part of our evaluation process. We review available records such as COAs, GC/MS reports, lot information, and supplier documentation whenever available.

However, documentation alone does not determine quality. Botanical materials are also assessed through provenance, consistency, sensory evaluation, and their suitability within the archive.

ARAU is a curated botanical archive where documentation informs selection, but curation defines value.

Are you a local BC brand or an international distributor?

ARAU is a Canadian botanical archive and distributor based in Greater Vancouver. We source internationally and maintain local inventory to better serve Canadian formulators, wellness professionals, and enthusiasts.Globally Sourced. Canadian Bottled. Locally Staged. Globally Minded.