Dr. Christoph Streicher, founder of Amrita Aromatherapy, brings a unique perspective to essential oils, combining his expertise in biochemistry, physiology, and Ayurveda. With a deep understanding of vibrational quality and plant intelligence, he formulates therapeutic blends that go beyond chemistry, supporting healing on physical, mental, and spiritual levels. In this interview for Mystic Mag, Dr. Streicher shares insights on what sets Amrita’s essential oils apart, the Ayurvedic principles behind his formulations, and the common misconceptions about essential oil use.
How did your background in biochemistry and physiology influence your approach to creating high-quality essential oils and therapeutic blends?
The combination of biochemistry and physiology in my background enabled me to follow a unique approach in evaluating which oils, with which chemical profile, are therapeutic for the human physiology and which ones are not.
What sets Amrita’s essential oils apart from other suppliers, and why is vibrational quality an important factor in sourcing?
Amrita’s oils are selected for 3 qualities that all influence their therapeutic value:
- Chemical profile
- Aroma quality
- Vibrational quality
It is important to understand that a particular chemical profile does not result in a corresponding aroma quality. There is a relationship between chemical profile and aroma quality, but it is not entirely linear, as a particular chemical profile does not result in a defined aroma quality. The vibrational quality of the oil goes beyond the chemical profile, but it is very important for the therapeutic effect. Vibrational quality is linked to the aroma, but the connection, again, is not linear. Many factors have an effect on the oil during production, starting with the growing conditions (commonly, organic oils have a significantly better vibrational quality), altitude, geographic latitude, and other climate influences like soil quality, time of harvest, and more.
Vibrational quality goes beyond the reductionist paradigm of science. Flower Essences, and other healing modalities, rely solely on vibrational qualities; thus for Essential Oils, this is very important. For example: when applying a quality Essential Oil to the pulse, an Ayurvedic physician trained in pulse diagnosis can tell that the pulse is immediately pacified. When applying a synthetic oil with the same chemical profile, the pulse does not react at all.
Can you share an example of how Ayurvedic principles guide your formulation of essential oil blends for healing and skin care?
Ayurvedic principles play a significant role in guiding our formulation of Essential Oil blends for both healing and skincare. Ayurveda teaches that our well-being is influenced by three primary doshas — Pitta, Vata, and Kapha — each representing different elemental qualities. Understanding these doshas allows us to create targeted blends that address specific skin concerns and promote balance.
For example, when formulating blends for Pitta skin types, which are prone to redness, irritation, and inflammation due to excess heat (aligned with the Fire element), we incorporate cooling and soothing oils. Rose is ideal for calming this heat, while Chamomile further reduces irritation and promotes comfort. These oils work together to balance Pitta’s fiery nature while supporting a more radiant complexion.
For Vata skin types, associated with dryness and sensitivity (linked to the Wind element), we include deeply nourishing oils like Jasmine and Myrrh. Jasmine supports hydration, while Myrrh promotes renewal and healing for damaged or depleted skin. In contrast, blends for Kapha skin types, which are often oily or congested (reflecting the Earth element), benefit from clarifying oils such as Neroli and Mint. Neroli offers gentle cleansing, while Mint’s refreshing properties help reduce excess oil and calm irritation. By following these Ayurvedic principles, we craft blends that address the root cause of skin concerns, promoting balance and well-being.
How do you see the relationship between plant intelligence and human consciousness, and how does this connection enhance the healing properties of essential oils?
The key word here is Self-Referral. Self-Referral typically refers to a concept in psychology, philosophy, or meditation where consciousness reflects upon itself — an inward focus rather than an exploration of external relationships. The plants and oils meet us where we are. They support our consciousness; whatever the next step of growth is for us. This is why Amrita strives to help you on 3 levels of being: physical, mental, and emotional/spiritual.
What are the biggest misconceptions people have about essential oils, and how do you educate customers on their proper therapeutic use?
Fortunately, the misconception that Essential Oils are just about their sense of smell, or even worse, that it does not matter whether you pick a synthetic oil instead of a natural oil, is gradually waning. Perhaps the area where there is the biggest need for education is in how to use them, different healing modalities, and dilution dosages. At Amrita, we strive to educate through our web site, newsletters, and we answer email inquiries about all of these topics.
