Editor’s Note: We spoke with Traci Dalrymple, the owner of Kokokahn Pure Essential Oils. Her store is at 3545 Bobcat Village Center Road in North Port (941-200-5243). The hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. She’s also at the Englewood Farmers Market Thursdays and the Venice Farmers Market Saturdays. Visit KokokahnEssentialOils.com to buy products. Mention Healthy19 online, at the market or at her store to save 15 percent.
Traci, how did you get involved with essential oils?
Living in Japan 18 years ago, an Australian friend introduced me to essential oils. I fell in love with natural healing and creating my own skin care products during my 5 years living there. When I returned, I continued studying essential oils and got my aromatherapy certification in the chemistry of the oils.
What makes your oils special?
They are sourced globally from artisan farmers who use unsprayed, wildcrafted or organic plant material and they are GC/MS tested to ensure purity and quality. GC/MS testing is the gold standard in the industry. It shows the chemical components in the essential oil and would show if there are any adulterants, contaminants or other synthetic component.
What about the benefits?
Calming stress and anxiety and helping respiratory issues are some of the most common effects I hear from customers. Essential oils have kept me healthy and help soothe my anxiety when driving on I-75.
What are several of your most popular products?
Our best-selling essential oils include lavender, frankincense and lemongrass. Our most popular blends are Breathe for respiratory support, Zen for calming and grounding and Dream Time for sleep. Some of our most popular aromatherapy products include Cool Relief Roll On for joint pain and our Face Cream with Agran oil and frankincense.
Traci, what can you share about your workshops?
We currently offer one workshop a month at our store. Our workshops are available for signup on our website, in the store or at one of the farmers markets we attend. Readers can sign up for our newsletter on our website to receive educational emails, specials and news about our products.
Where are you from originally and what brought you to North Port?
I’m originally from Overland Park, Kansas. After returning from Japan, I took a Spa management position in Tucson. I was offered a Spa Director position at The Gasparilla Inn which brought me to Rotonda. After starting my business, I moved to North Port and I’ve lived here for 8 years.
What are some of your other interests?
I’m passionate about animals, the environment and helping others. Every year we donate to a local no-kill animal sanctuary.