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Rating: 
Summary: Not awful, but not good
Review: I found that this work included a number of interesting concepts, however, it fell short of the expectation its title sets: An understanding of the science that can lead practitioners to providing safe aromatherapy. Many essential oils have been subjected to intensive scrutiny by such organizations as RIFM. This book includes few references to this critical body of work. Many of the resources it quotes do not themselves have references; therefore readers don't know if recommendations are based on research, on a given author's experience, or urban legend. The book's recommendations and advice draw from all three categories. The book also includes some emphasis on a non-standard approach to essential oil chemistry, relying on the evaluation of two qualities and drawing conclusions based on the assumptions of this minimal evaluation. The book is informal and accessible. Sometimes the tone changed from chatty to pedantic; not a fatal flaw, but an irritant. The consequences of misunderstanding essential oils can be painful (witness those suffering from burns and allergies from the use of undiluted irritants and sensitizers). Therefore practitioners should have a solid understanding of the underlying science of aromatherapy; then those who like the theories of a few fringe folks can virtuously "go on" to study with their gurus. Sadly, this book is not one that will give folks the broad scope of real science leading to safe use of aromatherapy.
Rating:
Summary: Not awful, but not good
Review: I found that this work included a number of interesting concepts, however, it fell short of the expectation its title sets: An understanding of the science that can lead practitioners to providing safe aromatherapy. Many essential oils have been subjected to intensive scrutiny by such organizations as RIFM. This book includes few references to this critical body of work. Many of the resources it quotes do not themselves have references; therefore readers don't know if recommendations are based on research, on a given author's experience, or urban legend. The book's recommendations and advice draw from all three categories. The book also includes some emphasis on a non-standard approach to essential oil chemistry, relying on the evaluation of two qualities and drawing conclusions based on the assumptions of this minimal evaluation. The book is informal and accessible. Sometimes the tone changed from chatty to pedantic; not a fatal flaw, but an irritant. The consequences of misunderstanding essential oils can be painful (witness those suffering from burns and allergies from the use of undiluted irritants and sensitizers). Therefore practitioners should have a solid understanding of the underlying science of aromatherapy; then those who like the theories of a few fringe folks can virtuously "go on" to study with their gurus. Sadly, this book is not one that will give folks the broad scope of real science leading to safe use of aromatherapy.
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