Aromatherapy For Dummies

by Kathi Keville

Whether it’s the tang of ozone in the air just before a rainstorm, the homey smell of freshly baked bread, or the inspiring scent of roses, natural aromas are everywhere with us, influencing our moods, and informing our perceptions. But natural aromas are capable of much more. Science is just beginning to reveal how aromas affect our bodies as well as our spirits, and what once seemed far-fetched–that you can treat many common ailments with nothing more than a pleasing smell–is now being taken seriously by many in the medical community. Yes, you can smell your way to good health, and now Aromatherapy For Dummies shows you how. This down-to-earth guide takes the mystery out of essential oils and other aromatherapy tools, and shows you how pleasing scents can cure what ails you and enhance your life at home and at work. Among other things, you’ll discover how to: Under the expert guidance of one of America’s leading botanical experts, you’ll bring the wonders of aromatherapy into your own life. Kathy Keville provides clear, concise, scientifically informed explanations of how plant essences can support body, mind, and spirit. She offers common sense advice on everything from therapeutics and cosmetics to the recreational uses of essential oils. And she supplies: The world is full of natural fragrances that can help you feel better, work smarter, play harder, and relax. It’s time to get well with the healing power of smell, and now Aromatherapy For Dummies shows you how.

Genres: Nonfiction

388 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 1999

About the author

Kathi Keville is an internationally known herbalist and aromatherapist and avid organic gardener. She has been highly recognized herb in the herbal and aromatherapy field since 1970 when she began teaching. She has been the Director of the American Herb Association since it’s creation in 1981 and was a founding member of the American Herbalist Guild in 1989. Kathi was granted honorary membership to the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy in and the American Aromatherapy Association for her pioneering work. She is also the editor of the AHA Quarterly Newsletter. See Kathi’s history in the herb field (link coming soon).

Reviews

[Margie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been reading this over the course of several months and finally finished. Great information in layman terms I understand. I am starting to delve into the oils and defusers.

[Alicia]

This was a super informative book, but I bought it on a whim when I got this grand idea that I would make aromatherapy products for people for Christmas. I actually did make a pretty big batch of products and everyone loved them. My personality tends to jump from one obsession to another, so now I have moved on to learning a few languages, so my poor aromatherapy book sits unused. For those who want to make products (either for personal use, gifts, or to start a business) this book is really useful.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this book about aromatherapy. Easy to read with some good recipes for blends. In the back has information about different condition/illnesses you may want to treat. I didn't read every page, but read what I needed.

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a nice guide for beginning aromatherapy info and recipes. I like that it also provided cautions if the oils were caustic or toxic. And the author broke down a lot of the terminology, provides good sources for buying products in the back of the book, and doesn't sound the least bit "witchy." I was interested in aromatherapy, not the New Age schlock that so many people get all caught up in these days. I wanted a how-to book on homeopathic cleaners and scents, without the peripheral stuff involved that reminds one of women in broomstick skirts, braless, with armpit hair and wearing too strong patchouli oil that was probably meant to repel bedbugs and humans alike with its noxious odor. If you are a somewhat glam, regular woman (or just a normal, naturalist guy) interested in a simple guide to aromatherapy without wanting to end up in the green movement, then this might just be the book for you.

[Florence Aleman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mostly all good basic information on aromatherapy. The chapter about sex and in the bedroom should have been left out as it was written for fun rather than the true science of aromatherapy. Would be nice to update with a newer version since so many more are now acquainted with aromatherapy.

[Grandma Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good tips on aromatherapy. Also has insect repellent recipes.

[Maryetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

No nonsense.

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting, but best an an introduction (obviously from the title).