From Ghana to Lake Anne: Nature’s Essentials Redefines Sesame Oil

by Kaydence Smith, Staff Writer

Photo contributed by Nature's Essentials

At the Lake Anne Farmers Market, a mother-daughter duo is introducing shoppers to the rich flavors and health benefits of fresh-pressed sesame oil. Their product is rooted in tradition and cultivated with care in Ghana.

Nature’s Essentials—soon to be known as Abeya Oils—is a Black-owned, woman-owned business born from a personal mission. Founder Ekua Ankuma launched the venture in the early days of the pandemic, inspired by her desire to work alongside and care for her parents in Ghana. The idea took shape through long conversations with family during visits home and eventually crystallized around one powerful, versatile ingredient: sesame.

“There aren’t many sesame oils coming out of West Africa,” Ekua explained. “We wanted to change that.”

What sets Abeya Oils apart is its transparent, ethical supply chain and deep commitment to freshness. The sesame seeds are grown and harvested primarily by women farmers in Ghana, then either toasted or left raw before being pressed into oil in small batches. Some batches are bottled locally in Ghana, while others are shipped to the U.S. for bottling.

Unlike mass-market sesame oils—which often pass through multiple countries and sit on shelves for months—Abeya’s oils arrive fresh and fragrant, sometimes just weeks after harvest. The difference is unmistakable. “At the farmers market, we love doing tastings,” said Araba Ankuma, Ekua’s daughter. “People try it and their eyes light up. They had no idea sesame oil could taste like this.”

The product line is divided into two categories: culinary and cosmetic. On the culinary side, Abeya offers three sesame oil varieties—untoasted, lightly toasted, and toasted—ideal for everything from vinaigrettes to marinades to air-fried vegetables. On the beauty side, the team has developed body oils and hair serums rich in antioxidants, vitamins E and K, and essential fatty acids. Customers have reported smoother skin, stronger hair, and other benefits. The team is currently conducting informal research to track results across different hair types.

But beyond the products, Nature’s Essentials is about community. The company works directly with women farmers in Ghana to provide tools, financial support, and fair-trade compensation. “It’s a small way to support their well-being,” said a Nature’s Essentials spokesperson.

Looking ahead, the duo hopes to bring their products to select grocery stores that share their mission and values, while continuing to expand their cosmetic line. Their rebrand, currently underway, will include a fresh new look under the name Abeya, a tribute to their family and cultural heritage.

Still, the heart of the business remains rooted in personal connection. “That’s the most rewarding part—connecting directly with people,” they said. “We are so grateful to every customer who supports us. None of this would be possible without them.”

You can find Abeya at the Lake Anne Farmers Market on Saturday mornings and on Instagram at @abeya.oils.