by Aliya Trinity, Founder and CEO of Alywillow

My journey to creating Alywillow began in the early 1990s, when three realizations deeply reshaped how I viewed everyday products and the natural world.

First, I became aware of how many synthetic substances surround us in daily life, even in products labeled “natural", and began questioning how regularly exposing the body to these ingredients might affect overall well-being.

Second, I learned that the skin is not simply a surface, but an interface with the world, and that what we apply to it matters. Every lotion, cleanser, detergent, and household product contributes to the environment we expose our bodies to each day.

Third, I reflected on the fact that our ancestors lived for generations without synthetic chemicals. That perspective showed me that a simpler, plant-centered approach was not only possible but worth returning to.

Together, these realizations set me on a path toward pure-plant formulation, non-toxic living, and creating skincare made only from real plants and minerals. That path eventually became Alywillow, a brand rooted in nature, guided by careful study, and built on the belief that thoughtfully chosen, truly clean ingredients can support a more intentional way of living.

Hi, I’m Aliya Trinity, CEO & Founder of Alywillow.

These realizations sparked my journey toward a life rooted in nature, and that life path ultimately led me to create Alywillow - a brand dedicated to pure-plant products that honor our roots and support a more intentional approach to well-being.

I was a young mother when I first began studying the chemical structure of plants, seeking plant-based alternatives to reduce my family’s exposure to synthetic chemicals. I never imagined this journey would lead to the creation of Alywillow, but an accident in 2007 became a turning point in my life.

That year, a serious injury resulted in significant spinal damage and physical challenges that greatly limited my mobility. I experienced intense discomfort, muscle weakness, and at times, full paralysis of my lower body. Over the decades since then, I have had extensive physical therapy, surgeries, treatments, and many discussions with my doctors regarding long-term pain management options, but I have always been personally hesitant about relying on heavy medications for the rest of my life. 

I began exploring plant-based approaches that aligned with my values and experiences. This search took me across the country and deep into the study of plants. Over time, I created a topical formula, made without drugs, steroids, or synthetics, that I personally found supportive during my recovery. That formula eventually became what is now known as Minty Relief. Through my own use, I experienced greater comfort and mobility, without the mental fog or physical damage I associated with other options.

I also noticed that feeling more physically supported made it easier for me to engage with daily life and rest more comfortably at night. These personal experiences encouraged me to share what I had created with others, and that sharing became the foundation of Alywillow.

From one to many...

From that single formula, Alywillow has grown into a company that now offers over 200 products—all made without drugs, steroids, or synthetic ingredients. But I didn’t stop there.

Because the skin is in constant contact with what we apply to it, I wanted to ensure our products were not only thoughtfully made but also aligned with a gentle, supportive approach to daily care. Rather than relying on harsh additives or synthetic ingredients, Alywillow products are created to care for the skin, support its natural functions, and fit into a broader wellness-minded lifestyle.

We use over 200 plants and minerals - and that’s it. No synthetics. No shortcuts. Just carefully chosen plant-based ingredients. At every obstacle, I reminded myself, “If our ancestors could live without synthetic chemicals, then so can we.”

It took decades of determination and innovation to build what many said wasn’t possible. Today, the experiences our customers share reflect that journey—something you can see in their reviews.

A Lifelong Connection to Plants

Over thirty years ago, I had no idea I would one day create Alywillow. My journey with plants began through simple, personal experiences—moments that made me pause and notice how deeply plants can affect our senses and state of being.

Each plant has its own presence and character, and in many Indigenous traditions, plants and stones are spoken of as relatives. When you spend enough time observing nature, you begin to notice patterns, relationships, and forms of communication that feel meaningful and alive.

For example, aloe plants often thrive when grown near other aloe plants, showing stronger growth and producing offshoots more readily than when kept alone. Observations like these shaped how I think about connection and vitality in the natural world. I also choose not to work with certain ingredients that have been shown to cause harm in the body, such as tea tree oil, based on my research, experience, and formulation philosophy, which is why it is not used in Alywillow products.

I am an earth-loving, tree-hugging, barefoot-walking mother, grandmother, public speaker, lifelong student of plants, meditation guide, and free spirit enjoying this human experience on Earth.

As an insatiable autodidact, I’m always learning. One day you might find me cleaning the barn, meditating on a mountaintop, writing a song (or book), or working hands-on in the lab—it all depends on the moment.

The integrity of Alywillow is as important to me as my commitment to authenticity. That’s why:

✔ I continue to run the lab and personally formulate every Alywillow product.
✔ I oversee production, wholesale programs, and our team.
✔ I’m not in this work for wealth—I do it because I believe people deserve access to thoughtfully made, plant-based options.

I’ve never wanted Alywillow in big-box stores, having seen how large-scale systems can disconnect products from people and communities. My intention has never been to become the biggest, but to build something meaningful and real - something that supports individuals in feeling more comfortable in their bodies and strengthens the communities they belong to. When people feel better supported in daily life through nature-centered choices, the world becomes a little gentler, a little brighter, one person at a time.

If you ever have questions, are interested in joining our wholesale family of small retail partners, or have ideas that could help Alywillow grow, I welcome you to reach out. We’re building something meaningful together - and lasting change only happens when people choose to take part.  If not us, then who?

I personally promise you that every Alywillow product is:

• made with zero synthetics, fillers, or hidden extras - ever.
• cruelty-free and completely free of animal by-products.
• formulated so your own sense of smell can help guide you away from any plant you may not enjoy before it touches your skin.
• crafted in micro-batches with careful attention to freshness and quality.
• packaged mindfully, with ingredients sourced to respect Earth as much as your body.

With over 30 years of research and development in natural formulas, Alywillow now offers a wide range of vegan and organic products created to support thoughtful, plant-centered skincare—without compromise. We remain here to help make everyday care feel simpler, more intentional, and more connected.

💚 With much love,
Aliya Trinity

Set up a time to speak to Aliya.