The global aromatherapy community is mourning the profound loss of Andrea Butje, founder of the Aromahead Institute, pioneering educator, and cherished soul whose passion, wisdom, and heart reshaped a field — and transformed countless lives along the way. Andrea passed away peacefully at home, embraced by love, leaving behind a legacy that transcends generations and borders.
A Life Lived in Full Bloom
To know Andrea was to witness someone living with intention, vibrancy, and boundless heart. Whether she was cultivating a garden, blending an oil, teaching students from around the world, or sharing a laugh with friends, Andrea showed up with her whole being. She didn’t believe in half-measures. Her life was a living expression of joy, generosity, and purpose.
One story speaks volumes: while others might plant a few lilies, Andrea planted hundreds — a reflection of how she approached everything. Big-hearted. All in. Overflowing with love and life.
A Vision That Elevated an Industry
Andrea’s contributions to aromatherapy were not just significant — they were revolutionary. With the creation of the Aromahead Institute, she helped establish one of the world’s most respected platforms for essential oil education. She pushed for science-backed transparency, advocated fiercely for ethical sourcing, and built a curriculum that combined technical knowledge with soulful connection.
Her impact was both personal and global. Students from every corner of the world credit Andrea not only for their training, but for igniting a lifelong passion — and often, a new purpose. Through her courses, writings, and teachings, she breathed humanity into chemistry and heart into healing.
A Teacher, A Friend, A Guiding Light
Beyond her professional brilliance, Andrea was deeply human. Warm, curious, grounded, and radiant. She listened with care, gave freely, and celebrated life in all its beauty — from the hum of beach waves to the stillness of the desert wind.
At the center of her world was her beloved life partner, Cindy. Their love was woven into everything Andrea created, and she honored that bond in both her personal and public life. In her acclaimed book The Heart of Aromatherapy, Andrea offered a simple, beautiful dedication:
“For my Cindy. In this vast universe, you are my home.”
A Legacy That Grows On
Though Andrea’s physical presence is gone, her essence remains. It’s in the oils she loved. The students she guided. The lives she changed. The gardens she planted. The industry she helped shape with such care.
Her work lives on in every diffuser’s mist, every course taken at Aromahead, every practitioner who chooses their oils with the same reverence Andrea taught us all to embody.
In Her Memory
To honor Andrea, the community is invited to share stories and tributes — to reflect on the many ways she touched our lives. A donation fund is also being created in her name, to support causes that reflect Andrea and Cindy’s shared values of sustainability, wellness, and compassion. More details will be shared soon.
Final Words for a Soul Who Gave Us So Much
Andrea Butje didn’t just teach aromatherapy — she taught us how to live: with love, curiosity, presence, and joy. Her absence is deeply felt. But so is her light.
We carry you with us, Andrea — in breath, in bloom, in every drop of beauty you left behind.
Rest peacefully. You were — and are — truly extraordinary.