Throughout generations, Sri Lankan culture has taught its people to rely on natural herbal remedies. Although generally used as forms of medicine and also in drinks or food, there are many innovative and creative ideas coming to light. Shakya Herbal is the brainchild of Shyamali Mallika Hewanasiri, and she incorporates the use of herbs into a range of cloth-based products.

Shyamali has employed many women in the area, providing secure jobs for them as she trains them in the art of creating various herbal mats, cushions and her latest venture, herbal footwear. She has received much positive feedback on the results of the remedial advantages in her products and she takes great pride in how far she has come while contributing immensely to the community.

Shakya Herbal is a grantee of the Enterprise Project which is funded by the European Union in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.