High in the heart of Scotland's Cairngorms National Park, where heather-covered moorlands capture over a billion litres of rain annually, nature performs a true miracle beneath the sleeping earth. For approximately 50 years, water journeys through miles of granite, emerging transformed at Pannanich Wells – the result is something extraordinary.
A HISTORY WRITTEN IN WATER
The healing reputation of Pannanich Wells dates back centuries, but it was in 1760 that these springs entered recorded history in a remarkable way. Isabella Michie, suffering from scrofula, a form of tuberculosis affecting the lymph nodes and a fatal condition of the time, was led to the wells and experienced a complete recovery after drinking and bathing in the waters.
This miraculous healing caught the attention of Francis Farquharson, Laird of Monaltrie, who recognised the springs' significance and built bath houses and an inn to accommodate visitors. Word spread rapidly, and soon people from all walks of life, from impoverished farmers to wealthy aristocrats and royalty, made pilgrimages to what became known as the "miracle waters."
In 1843, James Brown wrote of Pannanich Wells: "Here at all times but more especially in summer, is a most immense concourse of people, from all parts of the country, afflicted with all manner of diseases, so that it may almost be compared to the 'Pool of Siloam'."
Even Queen Victoria, during her time at nearby Balmoral Castle, came to sample these waters, adding royal endorsement to their already formidable reputation.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE HISTORY
What makes these waters so special? Modern science helps us understand some of the qualities that have drawn people to Pannanich Waters for centuries:
Nature's Mineral Balance
Every drop of Pannanich Waters contains a blend of naturally occurring minerals – including calcium and magnesium – that contribute to its distinctive fresh taste and gentle feel on the skin.
Compatible with Your Skin
With a natural pH of 6.1, our waters complement your skin's natural chemistry. This gentle balance makes Pannanich Waters a soothing companion for skin care, unlike harsher waters that might disrupt your skin's natural comfort.
Gentle Mineral Profile
Laboratory analysis shows Pannanich Waters contain approximately 60mg/l of dissolved minerals – notably lower than the average 375mg/l found in many bottled waters. In skincare, waters with lower mineral content can be beneficial because they're less likely to leave residue on the skin or interact with other ingredients. This makes our water an excellent base for skincare formulations, allowing the active ingredients in our Super Active Moisture Cream to work effectively without interference.
CLINICALLY VALIDATED BENEFITS
The extraordinary properties of these waters have been validated through eleven separate research studies at institutions including:
• Aberdeen Royal Infirmary
• Robert Gordon University
• Queen Margaret University
• University of Maribor
• TCS Cellworks
• Scotland's Rural College
THE LIVING LEGACY
Today, Pannanich Wells continues to flow as it has for centuries, with the waters emerging naturally through a fault line at the artesian springs. There are no boreholes or forced extraction; we take only what nature freely provides, ensuring sustainable stewardship of this precious resource.
By making these extraordinary waters the foundation of our Super Active Moisture Cream, we're connecting you to a natural resource that has attracted visitors since the 1760s.
The Sacred Waters of Pannanich Wells
The healing reputation of Pannanich Wells dates back centuries, but it was in 1760 that these springs entered recorded history in a remarkable way.
