During the archaelogical excavations on one dig located on the boundary between Spis and Liptov regions, a long-time forgotten ancient village called Hrachovisko (loosely translated as the Pea Field) has been discovered. In general, village dwellings were very humble and tiny, with only one room approximately 5x3meters in size. However, one dwelling, being evidently "luxurious" and generously built in comparison to the rest, did not fall into this picture. It was the abode of a village "magician" producing essential oils (in Slovak called "olejkar"). These findings only once again illustrate the importance these people generally enjoyed in the Medieval Ages. Actually, they were honoured and privileged until the end of the last century.
According to the dig artefacts, namely the pottery findings, which were positively identified as genuinely Slovak ones, we can say that the person engrossing himself in the oil and ointment production was of Slovak origin. The fact itself is very important as it proves that this craft had existed on our territory before the German colonisation in the 12th-13th centuries. It is more than sufficient evidence to fight off the opinion, generally widespread in some circles, saying that this craft did not originate here. Quite on contrary, it is genuinely Slovak, stemming from folk experience and the knowledge of their surroundings.
The centres of traditional essential oils production were always in the vicinity of Slovak highest mountain ranges. The reason was one and very obvious. That is to say a plethora of natural material necessary for such production, namely dwarf pine and richness of mountain flora. People knew medicinal properties of dwarf pine from the very early ages. This high altitude species was used to distil highly valued essential oil. Once distilled, further fragrant substances extracted mostly from medicinal herbs enriched the oil. Most common herbs being used were camomile, Perforate St John’s-worth, caraway seeds, etc. Additionally, healing ointments were obtained once being mixed together with bear fat. Curative oils and ointments were mainly known for their anti-inflammatory, disinfecting and antiseptic properties.
"Olejkars" were great travellers, themselves distributing and selling their well sought-after products, finding their way to the Russian tzar court as well as courts of other European rulers. Apart from oils and ointments, they were also offering medicinal herbs and highly professional advice based on the experience of countless generations as the trade was traditionally passed from a father on to the son. Not having enough "on their plates," they were also skilled saffron men, collecting and processing this priceless spice. No wonder that majority of them was enjoying a great respect and admiration of their satisfied customers.