Debra Stoltzfus has always taken an interest in natural health and wellness. Certified in several skin care techniques, Stoltzfus opened Inshanti Wellness Spa, in Kinzers, in 2004. A few years into running her successful business, she was approached by an essential oils salesperson and found herself intrigued by the benefits of these ancient elixirs. Her curiosity was piqued, but Stoltzfus wanted to ensure that anything she purchased to sell in the store was a quality product her customers could feel good about using.

She asked the representative a series of questions about the farm where the oils were produced and what type of standards were upheld in the production/distillation process. “The representative couldn’t answer my questions so I decided to take the initiative and educate myself,” explains Stoltzfus. “I started taking classes and doing my own research.”

Her effort paid off. Now a master blender, Stoltzfus has a great deal of knowledge about the chemistry, purity standards and blending of essential oils. She has studied advanced chemistry of essential oils at Aromahead Institute, served on the board of directors at the Alliance of International Aromatherapists and is a certified clinical aromatherapist. A lifelong learner, Stoltzfus is in the process of completing an international diplomacy course in pharmacology and toxicology.

Drawing upon her extensive research and education, Stoltzfus created her own line, Inshanti’s Essential Oils, in 2008. “I was disturbed to learn that so many oils get watered down with cheap oils or even contain synthetic scents. To be sure of what I was getting, I studied chemistry, anatomy and physiology so I could create my own blends,” says Stoltzfus.

When it comes to the quality of her products, Stoltzfus does not take any risks. She explains, “I have a relationship with the farmers and distillers and I order right from them. I also make sure every batch is tested with a gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GS/MS) test to see if the oils have been adulterated or contain any synthetic ingredients.” Stoltzfus also uses the data provided by this test to blend oils in precise proportion.

Clients can purchase pure essential oils to blend themselves or buy one of Inshanti’s proprietary blends, all of which are custom created by Stoltzfus, using her knowledge of the chemical consistencies of each oil to maximize the beneficial qualities of the blend. Some of Inshanti’s best-sellers include Viral-D, which relieves the pressure associated with sinus congestion; Migraine Braker, a concoction that alleviates migraine pain; In Perfect Peace Oil Blend, which helps stressed clients find harmony and emotional stability; Sweet Dreams Oil Blend, a sleep aid; and Delightful Body Butter, a great-smelling moisturizer. Stoltzfus also sells raw materials that her clients can use to make their own skincare products: beeswax, jojoba, containers and more.

Stoltzfus has recently developed Aroma Jewelry, a new line of wearable aromatics. Each necklace is designed to be fashionable and functional, containing essential oil blends to help with mental or emotional issues throughout the day. The jewelry is customizable and clients can use the blends that come with each necklace or choose a different oil or blend to use instead.

While selling oils and blends is a huge part of her business model, Stoltzfus is dedicated to empowering others with the skills they need to create their own essential oil blends. “I really love to educate people, so I teach courses on essential oils,” she says. “Teaching people about what to look for and how to make their own products to keep their family healthy is a real passion of mine.”

In the future, Stoltzfus would like to expand her retail store to include an educational center where people can take classes on essential oils and aromatherapy. She plans to offer an advanced aromatherapy course that leads to certification next year.

Inshanti’s Pure Essential Oils is located at 48 Slaymaker Hill Rd., in Kinzers. For more information, call 717-587-3990, email [email protected] or visit Inshanti.com.

Julianne Hale is a freelance writer and contributing editor for Natural Awakenings magazines throughout the country. Connect at [email protected].