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Summer Book Review: Worwood a True Authority on Aromatherapy

© Marie A. Miczak

Worwood, a True Authority on Aromatherapy

Valerie Ann Worwood is a household name to any credible Aromatherapist here in America or in Canada or England. Unlike other Aromatherapy authors who many times rely on self teaching or a somewhat narrow education, Worwood has solid credentials including being trained in Aromatherapy and Reflexology in England, the best place to learn the art. She is also a member of notable organizations over there including the London & Counties Society of Physiologists and the International Federation of Aromatherapists. In addition, she uses her clinics for research into how Aromatherapt effects fertility. She has not only a well established background (a few doctorates) but also a well rounded one which allows her to pen exceptional reference material anyone can use.

Although we will be looking at "The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy" (New World Library 1991 $18.95) today, Worwood has penned a number of titles which can be found at Amazon.com. This book in particular, which has been inducted into both the Doubleday and Quality Paperback book clubs, is very useful and well done. Worwood takes the time to go into detail about medical and health conditions that may be effected by essential oils and then gives a number of, sometimes advanced, blends to create and directions on application. This is extremely important to both the lay person and the Aromatherapist, as it can be hard to find credible essential oil blends. Added to this, her analyses and explanation of certain medical conditions is right on the mark.

Some may cringe at her Cooking with Essential Oils area of the book but this only shows that it can be done! (even though personally I have only done it with Orange oil and Sage). Woorwood also takes the time to give a list of essential oils that should never be used.

If you live in England or Australia, "The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy" is published as "The Fragrant Pharmacy" and may be somewhat different in content. Another good point about Worwoods book, even though this isn't blatantly inherent to the text, is that it makes a distinction from Aromatherapy and Aromacology. Essential oils are mostly applied and treatments are outlined clearly both medicinal and plausible uses. This book is a must for anyone interested in Aromatherapy in a layperson or Aromatherapist capacity.

-MAM