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In Focus #6

In Focus Essential Oils & Aromatherapy: Your Personal Guide

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In Focus Essential Oils is your quick guide to the qualities and healing effects of every major essential oil, including recipes for beauty, home, and health applications. Part of the In Focus series, the book applies a modern approach to teaching a classic body, mind, and spirit subject.
 
Essential oils have been used for centuries and across many cultures in holistic remedies for all types of common ailments. Extracted from flowers, seeds, plants, and trees, natural oils are applied either topically or aromatically to give healing effects.
 
After a detailed summary of each major oil, recipes of specific oil blends for numerous treatments are presented, including helpful hints and tips. Also included in this edition is a handy wall chart that details the most popular essential oils, their characteristics, and beneficial uses.
 
With practice, and with In Focus Essential Oils in hand, readers will be able to understand and use essential oils for countless purposes, including:
headaches
runny nose
allergies
common colds
cooking
perfume
deodorizing
stain removal
The In Focus series applies a modern approach to teaching the classic body, mind, and spirit subjects, using expert authors in their respective fields and featuring relevant visual material to smartly and purposely illustrate key topics within each subject. As a bonus, each book is packaged with index cards and/or a poster, to give readers a quick, go-to reference guide containing the most important information on the subject, for easy practice and retention.

148 pages, Hardcover

Published December 4, 2018

20 people are currently reading
297 people want to read

About the author

Marlene Houghton

9 books3 followers

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5 stars
44 (44%)
4 stars
38 (38%)
3 stars
13 (13%)
2 stars
2 (2%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Sheryl.
427 reviews116 followers
November 5, 2018
This is a great book for anyone who has an interest in Aromatherapy. Houghton does an excellent job breaking down the primary oils for the reader. The purchased book includes a wall chart for the different blends and how to use them. She also explains about the different carrier oils to use, I have two diffusers one in my living room and one in my bedroom, believe me, aromatherapy does work. I suffer from depression and at times crippling anxiety and Sandalwood is my oil of choice that I use in my living room, I use it straight by itself in my diffuser and my husband ever the skeptic has seen how it calms me down and eases my anxieties, I use another blend of Lavender, chamomile and various others in my bedroom at night to help me sleep.
Plus my big 65 lb baby who doesn't like thunderstorms benefits from a blend that I use especially for her. She goes into protective mode when we get some Texan thunderstorms, she barks and bristles plus paces the house. I've lived in Texas my whole life and I find our big storms to be the perfect sleeping weather, not so much with Zo who is going insane. I talked to my vet and she said that she's read that aromatherapy in the diffuser helps settle some animals down.
This is a great book for anyone who wants to get started in Aromatherapy or those like myself who has been practicing the art for the past 30 years. I find something new in every book I read regarding essential oils.
Disclosure: I would like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for granting my wish by providing with a copy of this galley in exchange for my honest review. The opinions I expressed above are my own.
7,036 reviews83 followers
October 9, 2018
Another good book from the In Focus series/collection. This book presented everything you need to know about essential oils. From their history, to how they are made, their many types and how to used them for every need. Very well done, good organization and presentation. I didn't learn much because my girlfriend love and use a lot of those, but for someone who don't know much and want a good book to use has an introduction, this might be a good choice!!
Profile Image for Judy.
120 reviews
October 9, 2018
I really loved the artwork and the easy to read nature of this book.

It's a great reference book to have for all things about essential oils, how to use them, where they come from, and their histories.

I enjoyed the little historical facts and stories to do with the descriptions of the essential oils.

Really looking forward to implementing some of the things I've learned into my life.
Profile Image for Vanellope.
719 reviews37 followers
February 19, 2023
Actual Rating: 2.5ish, idk

I was going to give it 3 stars because it *is* useful and accessible, but also a little repetitive. But I also found it a bit unnecessarily gendered sometimes, and I didn't love the assumption that people want to get rid of "excess weight", and some other small stuff like that combined with the fact that I really feel like being a hater today made me lower it to 2.
Profile Image for Andreea.
1,855 reviews62 followers
January 19, 2019
I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This is a great introductory book to aromatherapy and essential oils. It has examples, oils for baths, for skincare, for male care and even romantic potions.

There is a little something for everyone here.

The information is great and this book is lovely, but it doesn't stand out with anything.
Profile Image for Megan Thomas.
1,036 reviews14 followers
March 19, 2021
Loved this reference guide on aromatherapy! In addition to going over the basics, it also offered some suggested starter blends to try your hand at mixing your own blends at home. I will be referencing this guide often!
Profile Image for Autumn Willink-Terwilliger (Gardner).
13 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2022
good introductory book on aromatherapy and essential oils. a bit repetitive at times and I personally would have liked just a bit more information on each oil. for example, in the a to z of essential oils chapter it lists what each oil is useful for but not necessarily how to use it to help with that specific condition. would also have liked to see more information in the safety section of each oil as it explains that you shouldn’t use certain oils if you have certain conditions but doesn’t explain why it’s harmful and doesn’t specify if you should avoid that oil altogether or just topically. I also think it would have been nice and useful to include in the safety section if any oils should be avoided if using them in a home with pets. for instance, tea tree oil is toxic to cats and dogs but it doesn’t mention that anywhere and people should know not to use that in a diffuser in a small space of you have pets, I just think safety precautions like that would have been very helpful to include. I also would have liked to see more information on using the oils in a diffuser as that’s the main way I personally use them and I feel like most of the book was more on how to use them topically and in bathing/skincare practices and massage. I did really enjoy the little bits of the history of uses it went into a few times. again, overall a nice and easy to read book for people just getting into essential oils and aromatherapy just would have loved more of a detailed breakdown.
Profile Image for Anne Bollmann (Annelise Lestrange).
723 reviews78 followers
November 26, 2018
*~.Book Analysis.~*
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)

Rating: 5 stars
Reading period: Nov. 25th – 26th, 2018
Format: ebook
Source: NetGalley – I have received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Release date: Oct. 16th, 2018


PROS
Despite having tried aromatherapy before [and succeeded with it], I had never taken much interest in the subject until finding this book. It’s amazing how we can improve our mind and body with the help of natural elements and scents. I’m amazed to my soul and I can’t wait to go back to the little natural shop here in my neighborhood to try some new scents!

CONS
I fail to see how this book can be categorized as “self-help” by the own publisher. Aromatherapy is a craft, an art and, for some, even a hobby. To call it self-help as in the book category is erroneous in my opinion.

COVER ANALYSIS
This cover is the cutest thing ever. Somehow, they managed to turn such an important subject as Aromatherapy into something fluffy! The pale pink allied with small green points and black writings and details create a very appealing atmosphere!

RECOMMENDED FOR
Readers interested on trying a more natural lifestyle and interested in knowing more about aromatherapy!
Profile Image for Emily.
512 reviews4 followers
October 21, 2018
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*

SInce I'm someone quite new to the essential oils trend, this was a great tool for me. Some I knew, but even more I did not. The history of aromatherapy I could particularly intriguing. Then it went through a bunch of the most popular oils and part of the plant that was used, the keyword, aroma, description, uses, and safety. This was beyond helpful and really opened up my eyes a lot to what could possibly work for me and what oils I should be focusing on and what I shouldn't be. It talks about blending, carrier oils, different ways to use them. Just, everything. this is a 5 out of 5 star book for me. A wonderful, educational read.
Profile Image for Asera.
90 reviews5 followers
November 18, 2018
- Book wish granted by publisher at Netgalley UK. -

I have tried a few beginner’s books when it comes to essential oils and this one is by far the most readable.

Besides the introduction, it has a total of 14 chapters. Up till chapter 12, it covers everything from its history to recommendations for seasonal health. Chapters 13 and 14 however provide more recipes for different blends which I first thought unnecessary given that there were already other blends discussed in earlier pages. But having more in this case is a plus; one blend that suits myself might not suit another, after all.

This book has been enlightening and with this as my guide I no longer have to feel so lost among the many different types of essential oils. Absolute keeper!
Profile Image for Priya Bhowal.
177 reviews33 followers
July 9, 2019
A good handbook as a starter for someone who has just discovered aromatherapy and essential oils and a good quick reference for those who those who know and practice this therapy. Starting off with a brief history, followed by method of extraction and then information index of essential oils and career oils are insightful to the reader. The blend recipes should give DIY junkies a kick. The overall designing of the book is so pleasing and the illustrations are both visually appealing and helpful.
Profile Image for Destiny Bridwell.
1,719 reviews36 followers
July 30, 2019
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. This book was easy to use and easy to understand. I enjoys the different chapters like the beauty one and the first aid one. They are very useful and it made it simple to understand how to use and blend the oils together for personal use. 
Profile Image for Sheena.
181 reviews1 follower
January 20, 2021
I love the poster that was included. I liked the information provided. I only wish there was more. I liked the layout of the book and glad I picked this book up because I walked past it in a book store with no intention to buy but decided to give it a chance.
Profile Image for Amber Sherlock.
72 reviews3 followers
July 19, 2019
Great, informative guide for anyone interested in aromatherapy and essential oils. Practical and well-written with clear ideas of how to use lots of different oils for different reasons!
Profile Image for Bre.
263 reviews30 followers
November 10, 2019
Good and insightful book if you're into or wanna know more about essential oils and aromatherapy
Profile Image for Hollie.
49 reviews
March 20, 2022
Very modern, which I like. Great information, learnt a lot.
Profile Image for Christi Downes.
2 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2023
This book is a good introduction to aromatherapy. It gives suggestions on blends and oils and the treatment of an array of ailments to help with.
Profile Image for Elena Hensiek.
5 reviews1 follower
January 7, 2024
After the first couple sections it was very repetitive. I thought there would be a little more of the book that was informative.
Profile Image for MegsChaosLibrary.
211 reviews7 followers
January 6, 2024
💥(update) this has been my go-to book for all my aromatherapy needs. this has a detailed list of essential oils and descriptions, also warnings. (e.x. I suffer from depression so I should avoid Sandalwood Oil.)
This also has a list of carrier oils to use. (e.x. wheatgerm oil for Stretch marks. Peach Kernel Oil for sensitive complexions.)

This is such a wonderful detailed book for beginners!! Lots of information and not overwhelming to absorb! Wonderful!
Profile Image for Christian Rguez M.
7 reviews
April 17, 2021
Full of remedies for different situations, very well explained and brief. It is like a mini apothecary and being a first time in this subject I loved it.
Profile Image for Sophie.
11 reviews1 follower
October 15, 2018
This is a great book for people who are interested in the basics of the art of aromatherapy. It gives an overview on the history of essential oils. The author introduces the most common oils with them descriptions, ways to use them, when not to use them. It also covers the topic of carrier oils, which I didn't even know was a thing! The book offers different blends for well being and relaxation for example. I especially love that the author included a chapter especially for men. There are tips for preparing for each season, aromatherapy solutions for skin problems, muscle pain, stress. The book is beautifully illustrated and the design is a mix of a botanical guide and a magical potion book. The author even included a love potion! I think everyone who is even slightly interested in the ways of aromatherapy will find a lot of ways to use this book as a guide!
Profile Image for Jo.
649 reviews4 followers
October 17, 2018
#InFocusEssentialOils #NetGalley

One of the most extensive and complete guide about essential oils. The book starts historical facts about essential oils from ancient time to modern day. Also, Marlene includes an extended dictionary with the description, uses, aroma and other characteristic keys about each essential oil mentioned. Then, the author adds recipes, suggested blends with the benefits. My favorite chapters are: how to integrate the essential oils into the daily routine, how choice a diffuser and the guide of essential oils depending on the season of the year.
Profile Image for Vanessa.
329 reviews7 followers
October 22, 2018
Lovely and knowledgeable book to have in your library if you are interested in Essential oils and natural healing.
The book contains so much information - history of oils and treatments and uses. An A-Z listing of all oils and what they can do, this is really soooo very informative.
There is also a lot of information on using blenders and carrier oils. How and when to use essential oils.
I think the greatest knowledge in this book is How oil affect the body. An extremely informative section that should be read through firstly, before undergoing any use of oils as everyone can react so differently.

Definitely a great, thorough book to have in my Library.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
364 reviews
October 22, 2018
This book really helps the medicine go down!
With easy to follow instructions, recipes and beautiful art work, this book can help any novice pack their toolbox with useful knowledge on healing and health through essential oils.

I have been using oils and herbs for years now to combat illness, aches and pains and more and although I have a fair understanding, I feel even more confident now that I have this book to reference for future needs.

At times we do have to turn to prescribed medications for certain ailments, but there's so much we can using the bounty from earth to health our bodies better than any man-made pill or elixir.
Profile Image for Ruby The Romance Enthusiast.
428 reviews34 followers
October 25, 2018
Very informative on the do’s and don’t s of oil world. This is a book for anyone wanting to persue a natural alternative way to treat ailments of all kinds. Plus other uses for oils such as keeping pests away and making your home smell delicious.

I recommend to anyone wishing for more info on natural medicines.

I want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for the free ARC.
Profile Image for Cristie Underwood.
2,270 reviews64 followers
October 28, 2018
In-depth advice for beginners! This advice is presented in easy to follow language that can be broken up and applied in pieces at a time.
899 reviews18 followers
December 1, 2018
Yes! I love this series and I really enjoyed the book. There is more information as well as some blends can be very helpful to people who want more than essential oils being used in massages and oil information. It is a nice mix of information.
Profile Image for Elaine.
88 reviews2 followers
November 7, 2018
This is a well written and an informative book. The history of aromatherapy sets a foundation for the rest of the the book. There is an extensive list of essential oils, with detailed information about each. This is a useful book that can be valuable to any essential oils user. I would highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Michelle.
48 reviews4 followers
November 10, 2018
This book is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about essential oils and aromatherapy. The author discusses the history of aromatherapy and then gives extensive information on all of the most commonly used oils, including what parts of the plant are used, what they look like, their properties, uses and precautions. There are tons of recipes for mixtures for a variety of needs. This could very well be the only book you'll need for aromatherapy and essential oils!
Profile Image for Sara Archibald.
206 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2018
This book is very helpful and full of information on essential oils! I learned a lot more that you can use with different oils.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews

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