A Simple and Complete Guide for Essential Oils

By now, most Americans have heard about Essential Oils. But how do we learn what they are, how they work or which oil can be used for what purpose?

The Reference Guide for Essential Oils [Abundant Health, ISBN: 0-9706583-6-2, 11^th Edition revised September 2008], compiled by Connie and Alan Higley, offers an abundance of information for the beginner as well as the experienced. The editors of this spiral bound book of more than 500 pages cover everything from the history of essential oils to the benefits and uses of oils. They even provide recipes for using essential oils in home-made bath and body products.

Chapters include Science and Application, Single Oils, Oil Blends, Personal Care Products, and a Personal Guide. Below, find highlights of my three favorite, and most utilized, chapters:

Single Oils

This section lists oils alphabetically by the common name and information for the botanical family from which the oil hails, extraction methods, chemical constituents, properties (whether the oils is anti-inflammatory or sedative, for instance), folklore connected to the oil, possible uses, historical uses, and even biblical references for those interested. The Higley's also indicate which body systems are effected by the use of the oil, how aromatherapy comes into play, and whether a specific oil is Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS) for internal consumption. Finally, they include safety information concerning conditions that would contradict the oil, like Diabetes, Epilepsy, and even if one should avoid direct sunlight for a period of time after topical application.

Oil Blends

The Single Oil section includes information on compatible oils for each specific essential oil listed. The Oil Blends section takes that information a step further and lists specific oil combinations that have been popularized by the essential oil industry. Each ingredient in an established blend is described with an overview of health and wellness effects on both the emotional and physical level via aromatherapy or topical application, with guidance offered for the proper application of each blend.

Personal Guide

This comprehensive section lists conditions and disorders from Abscesses to Whiplash and more, with suggestions for single oils, oil blends, and supplements to aid in the repair of physical, emotional and mental issues.

Finally, an extensive cross-referencing system and complete, detailed index make using this book a pleasure. I personally use it as a reference for my own essential oil combinations and have found it useful on almost a daily basis.

Sources:

Personal Experience

Reference Guide for Essential Oils - 11^th Edition, compiled by Connie and Alan Higley [Abundant Health: 0-9706583-6-2, September 2008]