Lynda Ballard founder of Kobashi.

I founded Kobashi in 1985 with the mission of providing the finest essential oils and aromatherapy products at competitive prices. I am proud to say that, with the support of many dedicated individuals, we have successfully achieved this goal. Initially, we focused on serving the health food industry, but we have since expanded our reach to supply thousands of therapists, clinics, and hospitals around the globe.

From the beginning, we have implemented an exceptional discount structure. With our extensive experience in the industry, we understand the base prices for the highest quality products. While we appreciate the value of premium oils, we are often puzzled by the willingness of some to pay £25 for a 15ml bottle of tea tree oil. We are financially secure, debt-free, and could choose to retire if we wished, yet we continue to offer our products at a fraction of the price. Possibly we are not placing a high enough value.

Please note that our discount structure is only revealed upon purchase, as it is not available for first-time orders.

Kobashi is a well-established company that takes pride in the quality of its products. For over 40 years, we have consistently increased an honest reputation in an evergrowing market.

All of our oils are sourced from named botanical species and are 100% natural and unadulterated. We ensure that nothing is added or removed unless necessary for safety, and we rigorously test our oils for authenticity. Our state-of-the-art testing equipment, including GC and GC-MS systems, along with HP Chem-station and Wiley’s extensive chemical spectrum library, allows us to test to parts per trillion (ppt).

The structural testing of our oils is conducted by experts such as Dr. Kevin Brigden, Iryna Labunska, Scott Ballard, and others at laboratories in Exeter, Pyrenessences, and Mylnefield. Kobashi maintains a comprehensive library of essential oil data for cross-referencing and research purposes.

We also cultivate lavender, calendula, St. John's Wort, blue chamomile, Roman chamomile, Rosemary, Bay, and catnip organically in Devon. Additionally, we collaborate closely with growers and distillers worldwide, as it is often more cost-effective to partner with specialists in each product.

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100% Pure Essential Oils,
Carrier Oils & Aromatherapy products

Lily Ballard is distilling bay leaves and flowers using a copper still, resulting in a beautiful essential oil and hydrolat.

All Kobashi products are animal-free and suitable for vegans and vegetarians. We encourage everyone to strive for a vegan lifestyle, as it is beneficial for our environment, health, and overall well-being.

We are proud to say that 95% of our packaging materials are 100% biodegradable, and we are actively working towards making this figure 100% without compromising the integrity of our products during shipping.

Since our inception in 1985, Kobashi has campaigned against animal testing. We believe that animal testing is not a valid method for ensuring safety for humans, particularly due to its inherent cruelty.

In our early days, we were members of the BUAV and the Vegan Society. However, as this commitment is a fundamental part of our way of life, we prefer not to rely on logos that may not reflect personal ethics. While many may join various organizations, true integrity comes from within. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether to trust us. While it may have been easier to display logos, we believe in supporting our values authentically.

The unfortunate reality is that, despite the availability of alternatives, all products have been tested on animals at some point in history. Our goal is to take a strong stance against animal testing and work towards its elimination.

We advocate for the use of alternatives to animal testing and are committed to sourcing the best ingredients available. We prioritize oils that are organically grown, free from artificial fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, and pesticides. We detest harmful chemicals and strive for their complete eradication. Any oil that contains pesticides or herbicides at harmful levels is rejected, regardless of the marketing claims made by the supplier. It is important to note that no one can guarantee the absence of these substances at parts per billion (ppb) or parts per trillion (ppt), even if the products are grown in remote areas.

It is essential to recognize that all organically grown or synthetic compounds have their safe dosage levels. The key is understanding the dose and degree of exposure. For example, excessive water consumption can be harmful. We should move away from fear-mongering and focus on the fact that, in the right amounts, many substances can be beneficial. Our philosophy is to use as little as possible while maximizing the benefits.

We support individuals and groups dedicated to creating a better environment. We believe that wherever and whenever possible, we should harness sustainable energy.

At Kobashi, we generate our electricity from the sun. Our solar system produces 75 kW, yielding approximately 83,700 kWh per year. This allows us to export enough energy to the national electric grid to power 17 homes annually. Additionally, we actively support green energy suppliers. At home we have 13.68kw of solar.

We take great care in sourcing our oils, purchasing directly from growers and distillers whenever possible. While we maintain a healthy skepticism and do what is necessary to ensure quality, many of Kobashi's oils are organically grown—either through natural farming, sustainable wild harvesting, or organic certification at the source. We choose not to join an organic association, as this would only increase costs without providing any additional benefit to you.

All Kobashi products are formulated in-house to maintain strict quality control. Our luxurious blended lotions and creams are crafted with organically grown ingredients, including Aloe Vera, Lavender, and Frankincense hydrolats, as well as Evening Primrose oil, Rosehip seed oil, and natural mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E). Our premium shampoo features organically grown Aloe Vera as the primary ingredient after water, along with Jojoba oil, wheat germ oil, and natural Vitamins E and C, among other beneficial components. We encourage you to test our products for yourself; we are confident you will be impressed. if not please tell us and we aim to improve.

We have implemented a comprehensive system for measuring, batching, and stock control. Each essential oil is supplied in an amber glass bottle fitted with a dropper, designed to be held horizontally and tilted slowly for greater control during use.

We created the Kobashi logo and brand to serve as a healing bridge between all people around the world.

As a global family business, Lynda and Lily, both born in the UK, and Scott, who was born in the USA and is now a UK citizen-we believe in the unity of humanity while also celebrating autonomous individuality. We resonate with the concept of universal consciousness and the interconnectedness of all nature and the elements that shape our existence.

The name "Kobashi" has its roots in ancient Sanskrit and Japanese, meaning "good aroma coming from all directions, fragrant, virtuous, and beautiful. In Chinese, it translates to "bridges." We aspire to build these bridges, fostering harmony among all people.

Our mission is to move forward and create connections.

At Kobashi, we are committed to ensuring that we provide the best for everyone.

We believe that each person has the potential to be a healer, sharing healing energy with all those we encounter.

Warmest regards,

Lynda & Scott Ballard

We feel truly blessed to be part of the Kobashi journey.