The Complete Illustrated Guide to Aromatherapy: A Practical Approach to the Use of Essential Oils for Health and Well-Being (Colour Health Reference Series)

Introduces aromatherapy and its contemporary uses, profiles 65 oils, and discusses stress management, perfumery, buying oils, storage, and more

Julia Lawless has established herself as a worldwide authority on aromatherapy, and this book showcases her knowledge among gorgeous color photos. The "complete" in the title is key--besides covering the history and chemistry behind of the art of aromatherapy, you'll find tips for using aromatherapy for cosmetic and medicinal purposes--in oils, creams, steams, potpourri, perfumes, and flower waters. A large chunk of the book is devoted to massage techniques--sensual massage, baby massage, and reflexology. But the aromatic remedies for everything from athlete's foot and arthritis to varicose veins is what makes this book supremely useful for family health. The book finishes with a very handy index of essential oils, with half a page devoted to each, featuring safety data, identifying photos of the plant, and thorough lists of characteristics and actions.