About
The Story of Attar: According to Dick Martin, former owner and founder of Attar Herbs & Spices, developing the roots of Attar began early in his young adult life. As a graduate of Harvard with a degree in botany, Dick did his research on the uses of plants (ethnobotany) and studied how the American Indians used plants. Dick says, “I traveled a lot in South America, looking for plants for research for the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. I would collect samples and send them up there for analysis. I would find out a little bit from the Indians what they used them for.” And the roots began to take hold.
Dick explains, “Attar means perfumed in Persian. It comes from a word that means essence. It’s anything that has a fragrance, a taste or a smell.” Attar then became the name he gave his herb, spice and essential oil company when he opened its doors 45 years ago.
His very first office was in Harvard Square. It really was only a suitcase from which he sold his herbs and spices…and the business continued to grow. He then opened a health food store in Cambridge Mass. Eventually, he moved the business to New Ipswich, New Hampshire where it was in operation serving customers around the globe for over 40 years until his retirement.
Looking to the Future: 
In the late fall of 2010, Erik and I purchased Attar from Dick, after over 40 years of excellent service to restaurants, stores and crafters all over the United States. We are very fortunate that Dick continues to serve as a consultant to the business today.
We are a family owned and run business. Erik, who holds a degree in microbiology and biochemistry, oversees the quality control of the herbs and spices. He is also the first one to grab a handful of vanilla beans and experiment with making homemade vanilla extract, of course trying it out in more than just one type of base, always a scientist.
Our three enthusiastic children can often be found sweeping, making up boxes, labeling essential oils or decorating our white board with cheerful scenes.
When you call in, you will most likely talk with either Kate or Joyce. Kate brings great organization and a friendly voice on the other end of the phone. Joyce is always close by willing to help out wherever we need. When not in the office, she can be found in the kitchen whipping up something warm and delicious to keep us all well nourished. And yes, she always uses Attar’s herbs and spices. Behind the scenes is Ray, handyman extraordinaire always with an eye to detail. Ray helps to make sure our office is warm and functional. We are so fortunate to have such an incredible team!
As for me, I find I am wearing many hats these days and greatly enjoy the moments when I am able to talk with you, our customer, learn about your needs and hear all of the creative ways that our herbs, spices and essential oils are used to support your livelihood whether it be in your soapmaking, bakery, restaurant, health food store or whatever creative livelihood you have chosen. We look forward to continuing our service with you and appreciate all the feedback you have to offer. Your success and happiness is our success and happiness.
With warm wishes,
Melissa, Erik and the Attar Family