We were lucky to catch up with Cristina Felea recently and have shared our conversation below.

Cristina, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

At Arukah Apothecary, my mission is rooted in my faith and a deep belief that true healing comes from aligning with God’s natural design. For me, this isn’t just a business—it’s a calling. I’ve always been amazed by how intricately God designed plants to support our health, and I see my work as a way to honor Him by sharing those gifts with others.

My journey into herbalism started in 2015, but it really deepened as my faith grew. I began to see how the wisdom in using herbs isn’t just about physical healing; it’s also about connecting with God as the ultimate Creator and Healer. That’s where the idea of Restorative Herbalism comes in—restoring not just the body, but also the mind and soul, and pointing people back to Him in the process.

The name “Arukah” means restoration or wholeness, and that word carries so much meaning for me. I chose it because my heart is to help people restore their health naturally, using the abundant resources God has provided in nature. Every tincture, tea, or skincare product I make is crafted with care, not just to help with physical wellness, but to remind people of the beauty and power of God’s design.

This mission is personal to me because I’ve experienced the healing power of nature firsthand. I know how overwhelming it can feel to search for solutions, and I want Arukah Apothecary to be a place where people find hope, healing, and connection—not just with herbs, but with the Creator who made them.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Cristina Felea, and I’m a certified herbalist, holistic wellness educator, and the founder of Arukah Apothecary. My journey into herbalism and holistic health began in 2015, but it was truly shaped by my faith and a desire to understand the natural world as God designed it. Originally from Romania, I grew up surrounded by traditions that embraced the healing power of nature—things like making nettle soup or using herbs for teas and remedies. Those early experiences planted a seed, but it wasn’t until later in life that I realized the depth of what herbalism could offer.

I started working in a wellness center in Illinois, where I was exposed to a variety of natural healing modalities. From there, I immersed myself in the study of herbs and holistic health, traveling across the U.S. to run workshops and consultations. This hands-on experience inspired me to create Arukah Apothecary—a place where people could find high-quality herbal remedies crafted with intention and faith.

At Arukah Apothecary, I offer a range of products, including tinctures, tea blends, and natural skincare, all made in small batches using fresh, carefully sourced herbs. Each product is designed to address specific health needs, like stress relief, hormonal balance, sleep support, gut health, or detoxification. What sets my work apart is the faith-based approach I bring to herbalism. I don’t just see herbs as a solution to physical ailments—I see them as tools to help people reconnect with God and restore wholeness to their lives.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the personal connection I have with my clients. When someone uses an Arukah product and tells me it helped them sleep better, eased their anxiety, or improved their overall well-being, it reaffirms why I do this work. My heart is in every tincture and tea blend, and I want people to feel that care when they use my products.

What I want people to know most about Arukah Apothecary is that it’s not just a brand—it’s an extension of my faith and my belief in holistic, restorative healing. Whether it’s through a cortisol-balancing tincture, a detox tea, or a workshop at my upcoming Restorative Herbalism School, my mission is to empower others to embrace natural healing and trust in the abundance God has provided through His creation.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

One of my most effective strategies has been to really focus on connecting with my local community. Early on, I realized that building personal relationships with people in nearby towns was not only rewarding but also key to growing my clientele. Getting my products into small, independently owned shops has been a game-changer for my business.

I made it a point to seek out stores that align with my values—small boutiques and natural food shops that prioritize quality and sustainability. These are places where customers are already looking for products like mine, and because they’re not chain stores, the competition is minimal. It allows my products to stand out while also supporting other small businesses.

What made this strategy so effective was the personal touch I brought to each partnership. I didn’t just drop off my products and leave; I took the time to explain the story behind Arukah Apothecary, the care that goes into crafting every tincture and tea, and how my mission aligns with the store’s values. That personal connection not only helped my products get shelf space but also made store owners more likely to recommend them to their customers.

By focusing on local, independent shops, I’ve been able to create a strong foundation for my business while maintaining the integrity and personal touch that are so important to me. It’s a strategy that not only helps my business grow but also reinforces the sense of community and connection that’s at the heart of everything I do.

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

From the very beginning, I’ve focused on creating a personal connection with every customer—whether it’s through a handwritten note included with their order, answering their questions directly, or sharing the story behind my products and my faith-based approach to herbalism.

One way I stay connected is through email newsletters and social media. I use these platforms not just to promote products but to educate and inspire. I love sharing tips on how to use herbs, insights into holistic health, and updates about what’s happening at Arukah Apothecary. I also give sneak peeks into new product launches and behind-the-scenes looks at the production process, which helps customers feel more connected to the brand.

Hosting workshops and community events has also been a great way to foster loyalty. These gatherings provide an opportunity to connect face-to-face, share knowledge, and build relationships that go beyond just selling a product. Clients appreciate that I’m here to support them, educate them, and help them feel empowered on their wellness journey.

Lastly, I focus on quality and consistency. I know that if my products truly work and my customers see results, they’ll keep coming back. My goal is to not only provide effective remedies but also create an experience that makes clients feel cared for and valued. By combining personal attention, education, and high-quality products, I’ve been able to build a community of loyal customers who trust Arukah Apothecary and the heart behind it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.arukah.store/
• Instagram: @arukahapothecary