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Natural Awakenings Twin Cities

Sassafras Health Foods Store Celebrates Six Years

Nov 28, 2014 11:10AM ● By Jackie Flaherty

“Years ago, when I got sick and could get no answers from my doctors, my own research led me to natural supplements and improved health,” begins Paula Comstock’s story, owner of Sassafras Health Foods Store in downtown White Bear Lake.

Now, with a staff of six, Comstock is celebrating the sixth anniversary of her ownership of the store. Sassafras was started over 25 years ago and has been locally owned and operated by two owners before Comstock who purchased the store in 2008. “When I opened the store,” said Comstock, “I had a goal. I wanted to offer education to customers, the same kind of education I received in my journey of learning about health.”

“Education is a large part of what Sassafras is all about,” explained Comstock. “I attend product classes and keep up with the new scientific studies to keep up with the growth of this industry.” She has traveled to Canada, Chicago, Florida, New Hampshire and New Zealand to visit facilities that create the nutritional needs for her customers. “If we don't have what you need, we will do the research and find it for you,” she states.

“I love working with our fantastic, dedicated customers as well as a fabulous staff who are doing what they love,” exclaims Comstock. “One of my favorite memories was working with a customer with infertility problems who became pregnant.”

Comstock received her education from Global College of Nutritional Medicine and is a board certified Holistic Health Practitioner. Before purchasing Sassafras, Comstock was a professional photographer where she managed a photo lab and specialized in wedding photography.

Sassafras carries over 3,500 items, including vitamins, herbs, minerals, fish oils, essential oils, skin care, cleanse kits, protein powders, gluten-free snacks and much more. They also offer free classes and seminars on getting healthy naturally.

Recently, Sassafras has undergone a massive overhaul, including their website and logo, and a technology upgrade with a state of the art computer and cash register terminal. “It will cost more upfront,” Comstock said of the changes, “but in the long run it will be more efficient and customer-friendly and create a cost savings every month.”

In addition to the continued training and the free class offerings, the store has a community bulletin board featuring local practitioners of many different healing modalities with whom customers can connect as well as a staff of passionate, informed employees.

“With our knowledgeable and caring staff, we encourage people to learn about the supplements they’re taking,” said Comstock. “We do as much research for you as we can as well as help you find places to research products and health concerns on your own.”

Sassafras Health Foods is located at 2186 3rd St., White Bear Lake, 651-426-0101,  SassafrasHealthFoods.com .