About us

Hi there! I’m Carol,

The proud creator of KOOL balms and oils. I thought I’d share a little bit about my journey.

Looking back at my younger days as a single mum, raising two kids and the daily juggle of life, I learned a lot about resilience… though I do believe if I’d known back then about the incredible natural healing powers of Kawakawa, I might have handled things a bit differently—maybe with a little less frustration and a lot more hope!

Three children sitting on a fallen tree in a forest, two boys and one girl, smiling and making peace signs, wearing rain boots.

My eldest son struggled with severe eczema. It was heartbreaking to watch him scratch and suffer through inflamed, itchy skin. I tried everything! Prescriptions, creams, ointments - you name it. Sadly, nothing gave him more than temporary relief. Seeing him so uncomfortable left me feeling so helpless. I remember wishing there was a gentle, chemical-free way to help him—something natural and safe that actually worked. That desire stayed with me.

Over the years, as I became a grandmother, three of my grandsons also had skin irritations, the eldest suffering from the same server effects of eczema. I was determined to find better solutions for them.

Two smiling people, a woman and a man, standing inside a booth at an outdoor event. They are dressed in black vests and rubber boots. The booth displays various natural skincare products, with signs indicating they are for soothing skin relief, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne treatments.

With encouragement and support from my husband, trusting my instincts and what I’d learned as a mother and grandmother, I started exploring nature’s remedies. I dove into researching traditional healing plants and ingredients, learning more and more about the amazing healing properties and benefits Kawakawa offers. I also experimented with other natural goodies like Manuka honey and Vitamin E, which are renowned for their skin soothing benefits.

I began infusing Kawakawa leaves into oils and balms, blending them with the other natural ingredients. The process consisted of numerous trial and errors, cut and tries, try again and checks—but I enjoyed and continue to love the journey of creating something truly effective. After months of experimenting, I finally crafted a balm that felt different.

It was gentle, soothing, and provided real relief. I gave some to my eldest grandson, and wow, the difference was clear. His skin calmed down, itching lessened, and he was so happy about it! Seeing how well it worked, I kept refining my recipes. Eventually, our small family run business, KOOL Balms and Oils, was created — products made with love, natural ingredients, and a whole lot of hope.

My homemade balms have made a real difference in my family’s lives. My son, now an adult, no longer suffers from severe eczema, and my grandchildren can enjoy life a little more comfortably. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that nature’s remedies can truly make a difference, and I am so excited to share them with you.

Close-up of large green leaves with holes and a fern in the background.

The healing properties of the Kawakawa plant

Inspired by traditional remedies, Kawakawa (Piper excelsum), also known as the New Zealand pepper tree, has been used for generations by Māori and early settlers for its powerful medicinal qualities.

Known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties, Kawakawa helps soothe swollen skin, joints, and tissues, providing comfort and relief. This versatile plant not only nurtures the skin but also connects you to a time-honoured tradition of healing from nature.

Ingredient Benefits

Kawakawa

Contains myristicin and elemicin which have anti-inflammatory properties. They work together by removing nitric oxides from cells reducing inflammation.

Sweet Almond Oil

Soothes, hydrates, & provides antioxidants.

Apricot Kernel Oil

Moisturises sensitive skin. 

Shea Butter

Anti-inflammatory properties, softens, soothes, & provides fatty acids

Beeswax

Provides a protective layer.

Vitamin E

Protects cells from damage, provides antioxidants, & moisturises.

Mānuka Honey UMF15+

Rich in antioxidants, antibacterial, & anti-inflammatory.

Mānuka Oil

Anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, & powerful antibacterial properties.

Lavender Oil

Relieves dry skin & helps reduce inflammation.

Sandalwood

Soothes irritated skin, has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

Patchouli

Anti-fungal, antioxidants, & antibacterial properties.

Have a question or want to find out more?

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