Meet…Andrea Butje: Aromatherapy Specialist at Aromahead Institute
We love hearing more about the lives and loves of our NaturalCures contributors and we’re pretty sure you do too. Today, we’re bringing you a fun Q&A with Andrew Butje, who’s a long-time fan of all things aromatherapy and even set up her own aromatherapy school – www.aromahead.com – as a result. Here, she lets us in on her favorite essential oil recipes, as well as her plans for the future and her top tips to unwind and de-stress.
When and how did you first discover an interest in aromatherapy and natural pampering treats?
I was always interested in plants and herbs and started to work with essential oils in 1994 – our first year of owning and running the Finger Lakes School of Massage in Ithaca, NY. I went to aromatherapy school in England, and traveled to France to visit some essential oils distillers and open my own aromatherapy school. I started Aromahead Institute in 1999.
What’s your favorite way to de-stress?
I love making my own body care products and natural incense. I find natural aromas from essential oils and resins very calm and enjoyable. The process of making creams, body butters and even cleaning products is my way to unwind! It is creative and the house smells great.
Any Christmas or holiday tips for us?
Since the holidays can be such a busy time, sleep becomes really important. We all have those nights when sleep escapes us. Try this blend to ensure a good night’s sleep:
- Add 2 oz. water to a spray bottle with 10 drops of lavender essential oil (Lavendula angustifolia)
- Spray your sheets and under your pillow…and off you go to an aromatic world of dreams!
What are your top three aromatherapy oils and why?
- I love frankincense for its calming aroma and how it relieves a headache
- Lemon oil is antimicrobial (for cleaning) and leaves the house with a bright aroma
- Lavender is always in use at our house. It is great for sleep, to help heal a cut or a bruise and for muscle aches and pains
Do you have a failsafe, quick and easy aromatherapy pampering recipe everyone can try at home?
A cleaning scrub for kitchen and bathroom surfaces – so easy!
In a 16 oz-wide mouth container combine the following:
- 1 cup of baking soda
- 3 tablespoons of Castile soap
- 1 tablespoon of white vinegar
- 20 drops of peppermint essential oil (mentha x piperita)
Mix and cover. Use a little on your sponge for cleaning the sink, shower or bathtub.
Which oil(s) do you always make sure you have in the house?
Lemon, orange, lavender, tea tree and white pine
If you could create a pampering aromatherapy treatment for anyone, who would it be?
I would make a luscious bath salt for all young moms with kids!
Finally, where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
Actually, I love my life. I have a great time teaching at my school, Aromahead Institute. I see myself continuing to teach and work with online students from around the world. I really enjoy working for myself from home. So believe it or not, more of the same is just great for me!