Ashley Rickey, owner of The Naked Herb Company, 210 Jefferson St., Port Clinton, celebrated her opening last Friday with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Attending were Beth Gillman of Port Clinton City Council, Mayor Michael Snider, Crystal Peterson, County Commissioner Mark Coppeler, and Chamber of Commerce President Nicole Kochensparger. (Photo by Phil Wheeler).

By PHIL WHEELER

If you like tea, then The Naked Herb Company in the heart of Port Clinton at 210 Jefferson St., is a great place to visit. Offering 25 different teas, such as Kentucky Bourbon, which features lemon juice, honey, eucalyptus and bourbon to make a complex, refreshing summertime drink.

The wide selection of teas includes Ginger Bread, Oolong’s and Candy Cane, not to mention locally-sourced honey. Owner Ashley Rickey of The Naked Herb says they have something that is sure to suit your tastes, or your mood.

“The teas are all loose leaf,” said Rickey, “because I think they taste better. I have jars out so you can smell them.”

In addition, a variety of beverages for health and natural energy, and assorted jams line the shelves. Baked goods from “Once Upon a Time Bakery” actually have the teas incorporated into them.

Gem stones from “Infamous Crystals” grace a shelf made from plumbers pipe. The store is a dream, said Rickey.

“I wanted my own place where I could make my own teas, honey and spices,” said Rickey, “and this is the beginning of it. Long term, I want to continue to grow the business, but I would like to eventually do wholesale.”

Rickey is an Ohio native transplanted from Dayton, via Medina, to the Port Clinton area. A wife and mother of five “amazing kiddos,” she said, Rickey has a passion for all things holistic and healthy.

“We’re proud to offer the highest quality, most unique merchandise on the market today.” said Rickey. She is excited to now be a part of a small “community of amazing people.”

The future includes a hot water tank to encourage people to come in and sample the different teas, as well as salves for body care, homemade produce, and a large selection of pasta. Store hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday through Saturday. The curious can check out her tea selection at: thenakedherbco.com.

“From our family to yours, we put lots of love and careful attention in each item. We hope you enjoy our work as much as we enjoy bringing it to you,” said Rickey.