Mystic Flora Apothecary — Local services in San Mateo

Disappointing energy in a space that should have felt welcoming.

I stopped in on Thursday, October 9th, to buy two protective bracelets. As soon as my body began crossing the threshold of the establishment, I felt the energy shift, and that feeling continued as I moved through the space. When I first walked in, I even smiled and gave a small head nod to someone I made eye contact with, but there was no response. At the time I wasn’t sure if she worked there, but later I saw that she did. I was focused on my mission to find protection bracelets, so I ignored that first impression, which I now realize I should not have.

I spent a short while browsing near the front of the shop, but no one greeted me. I walked through to a larger room, then into a smaller back area, still without acknowledgment. As I was heading back out, someone finally asked if I needed help. She helped me find the bracelets I was looking for and was pleasant enough, though the energy felt more performative than genuine.

While I was browsing the bracelets, another customer came in who happened to be white, and the atmosphere noticeably shifted. Staff suddenly became cheerful and conversational in a way that had not been extended to me. When I decided on the two pieces I wanted and was standing in line to pay, I waited while another employee chatted warmly with that same customer who had arrived after me. During that time, the employee made eye contact with me twice. I smiled, even though I was wearing a mask, and she still said nothing. She later came from behind the counter, walked directly past me, and again said nothing. It was dismissive and uncomfortable to witness in a space that is supposed to be about connection and awareness.

I wasn’t afraid or uneasy. I never am, because I know I’m never alone and that my angels and guides are always with me. It was more of a heavy realization that people could carry this kind of energy in a place meant for healing, and that was deeply disappointing. The energy made that clear before anyone said a word. For people who present themselves as healers, to project discriminatory energy, no matter how politely, is unsettling. This was the first time I have experienced discrimination on a spiritual level, and it was painful to feel that in a space that is supposed to embody openness and light.

After cleansing the bracelets, they still felt flat, and I have since decided to release them. Maybe it was an off day, but discriminatory or closed-off energy has no place in a healing space. The energy I walked into, and left feeling somewhat coated in, was not it. I hope the team reflects on how much authenticity and inclusion matter in any environment devoted to light...

This place is so beautiful 😍! It's been awhile living in the Bay area I run into such a rare spiritual shop. First the parking is a hit and miss since this shop is right off the road might need to loop around the block a few times before space opens up . Next walking into this place is such a Gem , good quality crystals , leather , tarot's , over 20 herb jars to pick from . Handmade items of knifes and interesting books scattered from table to table. A huge lounge space right when you walk in to sit and get comfy . The people that work here are vary genuine and polite, welcoming indeed 🤍. I had a great...

This is a fantastic shop! It has good energy inside and has a distinctive, unique vibe. Lots of green, fresh plants mixed with a dark wood and truly witchy aesthetic. There’s nothing cookie cutter about them. The selection is not vast, but it is eclectic and well-curated and the items all feel like they’ve been well sourced and arranged with intent. They also give back to the community and the folks in the shop are friendly and helpful. What a great addition to the local...