About

About Me

Welcome to Rifugium Aromaticum, Nature's Aromatic Sanctuary!
A bee resting on a pink thistle flower in soft summer light

My name is Ruxandra Meinze, and I am the owner and founder of Rifugium Aromaticum. Here, we strive to provide evidence-based information on essential oils, aromatherapy, and ways to support your individual quest for a better, healthier you.

My journey into the world of aromatherapy began in 2019, driven by my quest to explore complementary holistic healing avenues for my husband's combat-related PTSD. I hold a Level 1 Aromatherapy certification from Aromahead Institute and am currently deepening my expertise through ongoing enrollment in Level 2 and Level 3 (Clinical Aromatherapy) certification courses. To expand my knowledge and deepen my expertise in aromatics for mental health, I have undertaken courses with reputable institutions such as Tisserand Institute, JennScents Aromaversity, The School of Aromatic Studies, and Waves of Change Wellness.

At Rifugium Aromaticum, we offer essential oil education and bespoke blends tailored to fit your needs and budget. Product safety and sustainability is, of course, a main priority.

Thank you for visiting Rifugium Aromaticum. I look forward to sharing the healing power of aromatherapy with you.

Warm regards, Ruxandra Meinze

"Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time."
Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Client note

"Ruxandra is a rare find. Her deep knowledge and thorough research changed how I handle stress at home. She taught me how to use acu-aromatherapy for myself and my children, starting with a simple vetiver and acupressure routine I still use on tough nights. She is so sweet and warm, easy to talk to, and treats you like a dear friend she simply wants to help. And she delivers!"

Katrin Birkholz

Client note

"I was always wondering if I was on the right spot but Ruxandra from Rifugium Aromaticum has taught me so much about the proper acupoints to use with Acu-Aroma therapy. I have become more confident in finding the proper points and which essential oils to use with them."

Jackie Glinkie

Client note

"Typical guy, thinking this was a fad and I was skeptical of any results. But it has helped me greatly! The time and effort Ruxandra puts into research, trials, and personal passion into all her efforts is what stands out."

Nelson

Client note

"Ruxandra has been a student of mine and a wonderful colleague. She is methodical and intentional with her blends and protocols, and I am proud to call her a friend and colleague. Anyone interested in deeper, more integrated healing would benefit from her work."

Angela Sidlo

Client note

"I have been a devoted client of Rifugium Aromaticum for five years. It is clear that Ruxandra leads her business with true integrity, taking the time to research and source only the safest, premium ingredients for her custom creations. Some of my favorite products are Pure Comfort and Resilient Essence. Her personalized sessions leave you feeling heard, and the formulas genuinely work. Lifelong client right here!"

Denise

Client note

"Ruxandra came up with solutions that addressed our needs. She gave us a lemon eucalyptus grapefruit inhaler that helped clear my nasal passages during a sinus infection. She also gave us a joint and muscle salve that helped me with arthritis and my husband with hand tremor cramps. Ruxandra is excellent in tailoring a custom solution to a person's individual needs. We highly recommend working with her."

Rosanne Roe

Credentials and memberships

  • Alliance of International Aromatherapists associate member
  • NAHA Certified Level 1 Aromatherapist, Level 1 member

About Rifugium Aromaticum

Green Tuscan hills and vineyards seen from a hilltop above Greve in Chianti

Welcome to Rifugium Aromaticum, a sanctuary of aromatherapy inspired by the serene beauty of Rifugium, a retreat perched on a hilltop above Greve in Chianti, Tuscany. Although inspired by this peaceful Tuscan setting, our base is nestled in the heart of Brunswick, Maryland, where we continue to embrace the essence of healing and wellbeing.

Our journey began inspired by a place steeped in tranquility and healing, once a Catholic convent now converted into a haven of vacation apartments. This magical setting became the inspiration for Rifugium Aromaticum, a venture deeply rooted in love, healing, and the transformative power of nature. Our founder's personal mission to support a loved one's recovery from PTSD unveiled the profound benefits of aromatherapy, leading to the creation of our unique custom essential oil blends, tailored to your specific needs.

The name Rifugium Aromaticum was chosen to embody the spirit of the place that inspires us. It reflects the crisp Tuscan mornings, the gentle mist, and the distant sound of church bells, all harmonizing with the subtle herbal scents from the nearby garden. Here, we offer an aromatic refuge, a space to rediscover joy and inner peace.

Rifugium Aromaticum is more than just an aromatherapy business; it is a philosophy that nurtures the body and the soul. We believe in creating blends where safety and happiness are not just aspirations, but realities. Our commitment is to harness the power of nature to foster healing and enjoyment.

As we continue to grow in Brunswick, we remain a beacon of hope, serving as a reminder that profound healing often emerges from simple pleasures: a breath of fresh air, the scent of herbs, and the peace found in everyday moments. Join us on this journey to reclaim life's joys and the comfort of a true refuge.