Two years ago, Homyna Curiel introduced Alaskans to her small-batch, raw apple cider vinegar tonic, infused with 14 whole ingredients and designed to promote health and wellness. Today, Fairbanks-based Tundra Tonics continues to grow in popularity, as Curiel channels a vision and passion that stretches well beyond the uniqueness of her product.
“When I first met Homyna in my office, I instantly knew she was going to make great things happen,” recalls Alaska SBDC Business Advisor Alexis Fanelli. “Not only is her product amazing and the only one of its kind in the state of Alaska, she views her business as a catalyst for progressive social and cultural change.”
Curiel’s Tundra Tonic Original Recipe is made from raw, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar (featuring the mother), infused with onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, jalapeno, habanero, cayenne, peppercorn, horseradish, lemon, rosemary, basil, sage, and thyme. Tundra Tonics also offers other versions of her tonics, including Dragon’s Blood, Sour Patch Spruce, and Pickled Tundra.
Curiel contacted the Alaska SBDC for help with her business processes. “Alexis at the Alaska SBDC helped me with practical things like financial and tax keeping methods,” recounts Curiel. “As well as things that are subtler, that you can only learn from someone with experience in business.”
As her business grows, Curiel continues to spread her message of health and open-mindedness, one bottle at a time. “I’m proud to make something healthy and honest that’s made from local ingredients,” says Curiel, “and that requires a specific skill set and passion to produce.”
“Tundra Tonics is quickly becoming an iconic name in the business and health arenas of Alaska and beyond,” adds Finelli.
You can connect with Tundra Tonics on Facebook and Instagram, or email Curiel at TundraTonics@gmail.com.