Start an online botanica shop

Practitioners and followers of folk or spiritual traditions, plus gift buyers and people who want hard-to-find items by post.

You buy stock wholesale or make some items yourself, then sell at a mark-up. Bundles, refills and regular customers help raise the average order.

• Knowledge of the traditions and products you sell
• Basic online shop and photography skills
• Careful packing and stock keeping

• Do not make medical or health claims about herbs. Check the rules on herbal products with Trading Standards or the MHRA
• Candles and incense need correct safety warnings and labelling. Check product safety and labelling rules for what you sell
• Check that any herbs, resins or materials you sell are legal to sell and import, including protected species
• Online sales come with consumer rights on returns and refunds. Check the rules for distance selling
• Check with your landlord or mortgage lender before storing stock at home, and make sure stock is insured
• Be respectful and accurate about sacred traditions, and avoid selling items you do not understand

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £600 to £3,000, depending on how much stock you buy and how you set up your website and photography. A focused range you know well is an easier place to start.

Do not make medical or health claims about herbs. Check the rules on herbal products with Trading Standards or the MHRA. Also check labelling and safety warnings for candles and incense, and that every material is legal to sell, including protected species.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue of typically around £400 to £2,000, depending on your range, pricing and how well you reach your community. The estimates assume at least around 8 hours a week for packing, posting and stock keeping.