Essential Oils Unveiled: Complex Compositions for Food, Cosmetics, and Medicine

Essential oils have been an integral part of human civilization for thousands of years. Their applications are highly diverse and range from fragrances to natural constituents of a healthy diet and use as active ingredients in medicinal products. Essential oils are natural complex substances (NCS) - complex mixtures of plants, animals and minerals as they occur in nature, and also as preparations derived from them. The secrets of the mutual interactions of the single substances that constitute NCS have not yet been unveiled. Synergistic, antagonistic and additive effects can all occur. Further research of such complex plant mixtures offers new options for the development of active plant-based medicines and biologically active resources for human, animal and plant life. This is especially important as mono-substance remedies, such as antibiotics, are reaching their therapeutic limits. This book provides a concise insight into essential oils as NCS, their analytic and galenic properties, their use in veterinary medicine and aromatherapy for humans, as well as their role in cosmetic and food industries.

Marek Bunse is a biologist with a PhD and a deep-rooted passion for the natural sciences. Currently serving as a science coordinator and communicator at WALA Heilmittel GmbH, he bridges the gap between complex scientific research and public understanding. His academic and professional expertise spans phytochemistry, botany, and the strategic acquisition of third-party funding for scientific projects.Since 2018, Marek Bunse has also run a small business as a graphic designer, combining his scientific insight with creative visual storytelling. His interdisciplinary approach enhances his ability to communicate science in compelling and accessible ways.Beyond his professional roles, he is actively engaged in promoting nature - biodiversity, soil health, and the study of multi-component mixtures in the context of integrative medicine and One Health. His work reflects a commitment to both scientific rigor and ecological sustainability, making him a unique voice in the intersection of biology, communication, and design.

Hartwig Schulz (PhD) studied chemistry in Bonn and Kiel (Germany). After completing his studies, he carried out several years research in the field of human nutrition (vitamin E, phytosterins, plant lipids) at the university of Kiel, Germany. Then, as head of an analytical department he worked 10 years for one of the worldwide largest perfume and flavor manufacturers (Symrise). From 1996 to 2019, he was the director and professor of a research institute under the responsibility of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture in Germany. Hartwig Schulz is author of 259 scientific articles and book chapters and as the president of the "German Society for Quality Research (DGQ)" he was also engaged 8 years in food research on a national and international level. Since his retirement, he is working as a consultant, especially in the field of "medicinal and aromatic plants" and is also supporting various development aid projects on a voluntary basis.