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Neal's Yard Remedies
Essential Oils
From the Neal's Yard Remedies series, this is an illustrated guide to the use of essential oils, which provides a history of essential oils, details of the various methods of extraction, the types and their uses, and details of suppliers.
144 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1996
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382 people want to read
About the author
Susan Curtis
67 books8 followersThere is more than one Susan Curtis in the Goodreads catalog. This entry is for Susan ^ Curtis, nutrition writer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 24, 2017
Well thought explanations, easily read directions and crisp colorful pictures make this book a step above to add to your aromatherapy/essential oils collection. It is divided into 6 main sections:
1. What Are Essential Oils?
2. Using Essential Oils
3. A-Z of Essential Oils including what each one is good for and their best, and safest, uses.
4. Base or Carrier Oils
5. Perfect Blends or Recipes including balms, spritzs, creams, soaks, bombs, melts, mists and foot scrubs.
6. Healing Remedies
It is a great outlet to use your home-grown herbs and dried rose petals. Expect to dish out some money for basic good essential oils. A little goes a long way.
1. What Are Essential Oils?
2. Using Essential Oils
3. A-Z of Essential Oils including what each one is good for and their best, and safest, uses.
4. Base or Carrier Oils
5. Perfect Blends or Recipes including balms, spritzs, creams, soaks, bombs, melts, mists and foot scrubs.
6. Healing Remedies
It is a great outlet to use your home-grown herbs and dried rose petals. Expect to dish out some money for basic good essential oils. A little goes a long way.
March 26, 2021
Full Review on The Candid Cover
4.5 Stars
I have just recently become aware of the benefits of using essential oils, and while I probably will never use them exclusively to treat my own ailments, there are some interesting ideas and tips in Essential Oils. This book really is a great resource for anyone wanting to understand natural medicine and the different ways that essential oils are used. There are tips for your home, health, beauty, and a very descriptive guide about each plant and oil used in these techniques.
If you are like me and have a super sense of smell, the directions for how to make a diffuser or room spray may be of use to you. It does seem like a healthier alternative to use an essential oil to alter the scent of a room. I love a subtle floral aroma in a room and I am going to give the room spray recipe a try. It is a simple mix of vodka, mineral oil, and an essential oil. Seems fairly simple and might just be my new go-to for a quick room deodorizer.
As with most DK books, the book is packed with all sorts of information and really delves deep into the history and science behind using the oils as a benefit to your mind, body, and soul. Each plant and its oil is discussed in depth and if you are at all curious about what a simple lavender oil can do, you will be very surprised.
The section that appeals to me the most in the book is the beauty section. I have just started trying to make my own bath products to save money, and as a hobby. There are a few recipes for making bath bombs and melts that are simple and relatively inexpensive to make. If those amazing store-bought bath bombs are your thing, you may want to check this book out because I was really surprised to discover the simple ingredients in making them. Baking soda, citric acid and essential oils are really all that is required.
This is a perfect guide for anyone interested in learning about essential oils and how they can be used. The book is easy to follow and you will come away with a wealth of information on this hot trend that has been around for centuries. I look forward to trying a few of them out myself.
4.5 Stars
I have just recently become aware of the benefits of using essential oils, and while I probably will never use them exclusively to treat my own ailments, there are some interesting ideas and tips in Essential Oils. This book really is a great resource for anyone wanting to understand natural medicine and the different ways that essential oils are used. There are tips for your home, health, beauty, and a very descriptive guide about each plant and oil used in these techniques.
If you are like me and have a super sense of smell, the directions for how to make a diffuser or room spray may be of use to you. It does seem like a healthier alternative to use an essential oil to alter the scent of a room. I love a subtle floral aroma in a room and I am going to give the room spray recipe a try. It is a simple mix of vodka, mineral oil, and an essential oil. Seems fairly simple and might just be my new go-to for a quick room deodorizer.
As with most DK books, the book is packed with all sorts of information and really delves deep into the history and science behind using the oils as a benefit to your mind, body, and soul. Each plant and its oil is discussed in depth and if you are at all curious about what a simple lavender oil can do, you will be very surprised.
The section that appeals to me the most in the book is the beauty section. I have just started trying to make my own bath products to save money, and as a hobby. There are a few recipes for making bath bombs and melts that are simple and relatively inexpensive to make. If those amazing store-bought bath bombs are your thing, you may want to check this book out because I was really surprised to discover the simple ingredients in making them. Baking soda, citric acid and essential oils are really all that is required.
This is a perfect guide for anyone interested in learning about essential oils and how they can be used. The book is easy to follow and you will come away with a wealth of information on this hot trend that has been around for centuries. I look forward to trying a few of them out myself.
December 6, 2017
I've always been interested in essential oils, but other than the lavender oil I add haphazardly to homemade bath bombs, I know absolutely nothing. So when I saw this book on Netgalley, I jumped at the chance to review it.
First of all, it's gorgeous AND comprehensive! There's a great introduction to what essential oils are, how they're collected, and the difference between organic and synthetic. Each oil is then given a page or more to their personal qualities (medicinal, therapeutic, etc), and how to use them safely. The last third of the book contains recipes for essential oil blends, lotions, and bath bombs/tonics/melts.
I feel that I have a better understanding of essential oils in general, and which ones I'd personally like to try. I'm also definitely going to try out of some of the bath recipes! My only (small) complaint is the section on heart health and stress is located in the Men's Health reference section. Heart disease and heart health is not a gendered medical issue, and in fact currently affects 1 in 4 women in the US.
Thank you to DK and Netgalley for an ARC.
First of all, it's gorgeous AND comprehensive! There's a great introduction to what essential oils are, how they're collected, and the difference between organic and synthetic. Each oil is then given a page or more to their personal qualities (medicinal, therapeutic, etc), and how to use them safely. The last third of the book contains recipes for essential oil blends, lotions, and bath bombs/tonics/melts.
I feel that I have a better understanding of essential oils in general, and which ones I'd personally like to try. I'm also definitely going to try out of some of the bath recipes! My only (small) complaint is the section on heart health and stress is located in the Men's Health reference section. Heart disease and heart health is not a gendered medical issue, and in fact currently affects 1 in 4 women in the US.
Thank you to DK and Netgalley for an ARC.
May 31, 2017
This a terrific compilation of knowledge on all things essential oils. It serves as a great intro to oils guide with tons of recipes! I have several friends using them and wanted to know more about them. This book is a fantastic reference guide!!
June 23, 2017
I’m a huge fan of Dorling Kindersley or DK books from way back to when my son was little. They produce books with the best pictures and the most fascinating information. I’ve never really read an adult DK book before Essential Oils: All-natural remedies and recipes for your mind, body, and home.
This book is published in the UK. What that means is that it is not compliant with what the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) says that oil producers in the USA can claim that an oil does. That isn’t a bad thing though. The FDA hasn’t made any rules about the medical claims of essential oils ever. Why? It could be that big pharma in the US doesn’t want their profits to be usurped by the alternative health industry. It could also be that the FDA would be completely overwhelmed by the number of essential oil companies out there. Most of which aren’t producing a quality product. There are probably only less than a handful that you could trust and even so I would be very careful.
This is a 257-page book that is chock-full of fabulous information. It starts out explaining what essential oils are and how they work. If you’re going to use them therapeutically, you should understand that they can be very powerful and can effect people differently. You should also understand that not all oils are what they are labeled. Some are cut with chemicals and contain very little actual essential oil. This is why it’s important to know your source. The book continues on with information on how the oils are extracted and where they come from. I understood extraction methods but I loved the illustration showing where most of the oils come from all over the world.
The next section of the book contains 88 profiles of individual essential oils. I have heard of many of them but there were others that I wasn’t familiar with. The profile describes where the oil is extracted from and some information about the plant in general. Then the maladies that it’s good for and the best way to use the oil to help those maladies. I like that there are warnings on the oils that might not be good for a pregnant or breastfeeding woman or someone who has seizures. There is a little picture key at the top of each description that lets you know what the recipes for that oil are. For example, yarrow has recipes for a massage oil and steam inhalation on the page so the illustration at the top of the page lets me know that.
The next section is labeled Base Oils but we call them Carrier Oils in the US. This section explains the (fatty not essential) oils that can be used to dilute the potency of the essential oils. These are oils like coconut oil, shea butter, almond oil, and cocoa butter. There are carrier oils that I’d not heard of before and I’m not even sure that they are available in the US but they would be worth looking into. Some carrier oils have their own healing properties. Coconut oil is antibacterial so you might want to use it for certain recipes.
The final sections include information on how to blend for fragrances and beauty as well as recipes for listed medical conditions. Again, this book isn’t FDA-compliant in the US but that doesn’t mean that the information isn’t good. I made one of the recipes for a medical condition that I was dealing with and it appears to be doing exactly what it’s supposed to do. Plants and oils have been used for centuries to heal. There is an extensive Glossary and Index to help you find what you’re looking for if the Table of Contents doesn’t help you.
I highly recommend purchasing Essential Oils: All-natural remedies and recipes for your mind, body, and home to keep in your oily arsenal. It’s a fabulous reference tool and I will continue to use it with my essential oils.
This book is published in the UK. What that means is that it is not compliant with what the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) says that oil producers in the USA can claim that an oil does. That isn’t a bad thing though. The FDA hasn’t made any rules about the medical claims of essential oils ever. Why? It could be that big pharma in the US doesn’t want their profits to be usurped by the alternative health industry. It could also be that the FDA would be completely overwhelmed by the number of essential oil companies out there. Most of which aren’t producing a quality product. There are probably only less than a handful that you could trust and even so I would be very careful.
This is a 257-page book that is chock-full of fabulous information. It starts out explaining what essential oils are and how they work. If you’re going to use them therapeutically, you should understand that they can be very powerful and can effect people differently. You should also understand that not all oils are what they are labeled. Some are cut with chemicals and contain very little actual essential oil. This is why it’s important to know your source. The book continues on with information on how the oils are extracted and where they come from. I understood extraction methods but I loved the illustration showing where most of the oils come from all over the world.
The next section of the book contains 88 profiles of individual essential oils. I have heard of many of them but there were others that I wasn’t familiar with. The profile describes where the oil is extracted from and some information about the plant in general. Then the maladies that it’s good for and the best way to use the oil to help those maladies. I like that there are warnings on the oils that might not be good for a pregnant or breastfeeding woman or someone who has seizures. There is a little picture key at the top of each description that lets you know what the recipes for that oil are. For example, yarrow has recipes for a massage oil and steam inhalation on the page so the illustration at the top of the page lets me know that.
The next section is labeled Base Oils but we call them Carrier Oils in the US. This section explains the (fatty not essential) oils that can be used to dilute the potency of the essential oils. These are oils like coconut oil, shea butter, almond oil, and cocoa butter. There are carrier oils that I’d not heard of before and I’m not even sure that they are available in the US but they would be worth looking into. Some carrier oils have their own healing properties. Coconut oil is antibacterial so you might want to use it for certain recipes.
The final sections include information on how to blend for fragrances and beauty as well as recipes for listed medical conditions. Again, this book isn’t FDA-compliant in the US but that doesn’t mean that the information isn’t good. I made one of the recipes for a medical condition that I was dealing with and it appears to be doing exactly what it’s supposed to do. Plants and oils have been used for centuries to heal. There is an extensive Glossary and Index to help you find what you’re looking for if the Table of Contents doesn’t help you.
I highly recommend purchasing Essential Oils: All-natural remedies and recipes for your mind, body, and home to keep in your oily arsenal. It’s a fabulous reference tool and I will continue to use it with my essential oils.
November 25, 2017
First, let me admit that I am a huge fan of DK. Their books are always informative, easy to read and filled with great pictures and details. I actually feel happy just flipping through them before reading because each page catches my eye and makes me want to stop and read. This book does not disappoint. Pictures are beautiful, layouts are amazing, info is strong.
If you want to learn more about EO and respond well to bright colors and cookbooks that include photos of the finished food, then this is EO book you need to buy. If you want scientific jargon, personal stories or paragraphs instead of lists, look elsewhere. If you want to have a book on your coffee table that will encourage others to talk to you about oils, buy it now.
If you want to learn more about EO and respond well to bright colors and cookbooks that include photos of the finished food, then this is EO book you need to buy. If you want scientific jargon, personal stories or paragraphs instead of lists, look elsewhere. If you want to have a book on your coffee table that will encourage others to talk to you about oils, buy it now.
August 4, 2017
Very beautiful book and as a beginner in essential oils, this book has a good layout with brief explanations of the benefits and applications of essential oils. I purchased some essential oils from a local store that sells organic and therapeutic grade essential oils and I wanted to learn more about oils. The book deepened my understanding and appreciation for this natural form of healing and for overall well-being. This book would make a great gift if you know someone is interested in learning more about oils or just want to have the latest reference about oils with numerous concoctions and suggested blends.
January 30, 2024
Essential oils and aroma oils have a gentle natural scent that soothes your tired mind and body.
The aroma fills the room and is very soothing. Aroma has a well-being and relaxation effect.
This book begins with the effects of aromatic oils on the body and mind, and then describes how to select aromatic oils, their types, regions of origin, and base oils.
The second half introduces recipes for handmade massage oils, skin care, hair care, and lip care items.
For aromatherapy, you can light a candle at home or enjoy the scent of aromatic oils such as lavender, rosemary, peppermint, etc. in an aroma pot.
The aroma fills the room and is very soothing. Aroma has a well-being and relaxation effect.
This book begins with the effects of aromatic oils on the body and mind, and then describes how to select aromatic oils, their types, regions of origin, and base oils.
The second half introduces recipes for handmade massage oils, skin care, hair care, and lip care items.
For aromatherapy, you can light a candle at home or enjoy the scent of aromatic oils such as lavender, rosemary, peppermint, etc. in an aroma pot.
February 15, 2018
While looking for holistic remedies I found this book in the library and became enchanted by its photos and unique layout. I am still digesting the reasons why I was driven to purchase a copy of my own; perhaps it has something to do with being a newbie, and also not looking to make my own products, but simply to learn about the source and properties of different oils, how to blend them, and their uses. I love seeing the plants they come from and reading about them. Many thanks to authors and publishers!
October 5, 2017
I have recently become obsessed with essential oils. I checked this book out hoping for a lot of recipes. I found a handful of recipes, but this book mostly had descriptions of each oil and the best way to use it. I was surprised to not see rollerblend recipes as it is one of the best ways to use oils. I have some mixed feelings on this book. I think if you plan to use oils for massage or diffusing this book would be a good fit.
December 12, 2017
Essential Oils
By Neal’s Yard Remedies
October 2016
Beautiful cover! Wonderfully illustrated and well-organized. As a Holistic Health Coach, I am fascinated with essential oils! This is a tremendous resource for anyone wanting to incorporate oils into their life. Everything is broken down and explained. It makes a great coffee table book as well. The pictures are vivid and the format pleasing to the eye. The book itself exudes positivity!
By Neal’s Yard Remedies
October 2016
Beautiful cover! Wonderfully illustrated and well-organized. As a Holistic Health Coach, I am fascinated with essential oils! This is a tremendous resource for anyone wanting to incorporate oils into their life. Everything is broken down and explained. It makes a great coffee table book as well. The pictures are vivid and the format pleasing to the eye. The book itself exudes positivity!
May 13, 2017
Essential Oils by Neal's Yard Remedies
When I saw this book I knew I wanted to read it. I have a coworker who swear by Essential Oil remedies and I have been wanting to look into them. This was a beautiful book that helped me understand a little more what Essential Oil were and did.
When I saw this book I knew I wanted to read it. I have a coworker who swear by Essential Oil remedies and I have been wanting to look into them. This was a beautiful book that helped me understand a little more what Essential Oil were and did.
July 7, 2017
I checked this out from the library and immediately had to order my own copy. Clear pictures and descriptions and uses of different oils to use in aromatherapy. Now I have a HUGE list I need to get and use them more. Really love this book.
August 20, 2017
This is an excellent essential oils resource. It provides readers with in depth information on different oils, suggested uses, and even includes recipes and ideas for how to use the different oils in their suggested ways. Truly a great reference book for oil users!
November 10, 2017
This is a wonderful reference to essential oils. If you know someone that has any interest at all on oils then get this book for them.
The photos and detail of each item is great. The index is wonderful help if you are looking for a certain item.
The photos and detail of each item is great. The index is wonderful help if you are looking for a certain item.
August 11, 2020
Really like the way this is laid out. Beautiful pictures and organized information throughout for you to explore and take in. I will be using this to reference a lot. DK books are always done well.
June 5, 2017
This is a great book. so much helpful info on not only the oils but how they help what region they come from and how to us them effectively. the recipes look good too!
January 13, 2018
I like that there are recipes in here and I feel like the individual oil pages have different information, I might not know. I'm looking forward to using this book as a reference guide.
January 27, 2018
very informative! learned alot cannot wait to see how they work
May 7, 2018
A complete book that focuses on making your own blends, something not that I'm looking for right now. I'll be keeping this one on the back burner though, should I ever get to that point.
November 27, 2019
Quite a lovely book with some great recipes for skincare and more.
November 12, 2023
Well organized, informative, good explanations, easy to read charts, and beautiful graphics.
July 26, 2018
An essential in my home collection, was able to buy two more and give as gifts. All praise goes out to author Jesmyn Ward's "Sing Unburied Sing", which pulled me to finally stop browsing and pick this book up. Natural resources still exist after all.
October 31, 2019
Essential Oils is a beautiful book. We can't keep it in stock.
The information in this book is amazing and the illustrations are beautiful.
It is a must have if you are in the market for making your own oils.
The information in this book is amazing and the illustrations are beautiful.
It is a must have if you are in the market for making your own oils.
January 27, 2021
I love this book as I can look up
Almost any condition or situation and there is information on an oil or blend that may help .I especially have enjoyed the section on how oils are obtained and extracted . The pictures are amazing and the information is extensive and fascinating
Almost any condition or situation and there is information on an oil or blend that may help .I especially have enjoyed the section on how oils are obtained and extracted . The pictures are amazing and the information is extensive and fascinating
August 26, 2021
Recently I started learning about the benefits of essential oils for health and beauty. This book provided a lot of information about essential oils, carrier oils, and ideas for how to uses them. I learned a lot!!
June 18, 2011
One of my all time favourite aromatherapy books. Not hugely detailed yet amazingly useful. The first book I head to when I'm looking for information.
August 7, 2017
Nice illustrations
February 8, 2018
Because this is my life now.
December 12, 2020
Great book, full of useful information and lovely photos.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews