Resources for Practitioners

Books are an invaluable resource for Aromatherapists to use as guidance in their practice or recipe formulations. Critics have however played on this making such statements as "Aromatherapists only seem to enjoy talking about books by other Aromatherapists" and so forth. While ridiculous, as everyone in a set medical profession will read books by others trained in that same profession, it should be pointed out that "Aromatherapy" based books are not the only source of pertinent information on essential oils. Reading titles by others, perhaps involved in botany (such as James Duke) or herbology can add new dimension to your aromatic appreciation. Aromatherapy is a very holistic and multifaceted form of health and healing. Being well rounded will only enhance your practice and profession. Two very helpful titles I have come across include:

"Integrative Medicine - Access - Professional Reference to Conditions, Herbs & Supplements" (by Integrative Medicine: 2000) ISBN 0967077206.

"Alternative Medicine" (by The Burton Goldberg Group: 1995) ISBN 0963633430.

While both are not cheap, over $50.00 in fact, they are invaluable to the Aromatherapist as almost every condition indicated includes essential oils that may be used to treat the condition. These essential oils, sometimes in blends, is taken from the latest research and information, especially in reference to the "Access" title. Both books also serve to show other holistic treatments that may be combined with the Aromatherapy and once again in the case of the "Access" book, provides handouts to photocopy and give to patients / clients. This is especially helpful to Aromatherapists practicing in the US and other restrictive countries, as the liability will be placed on the handout and not you so much. If you are serious about your profession and or practice, it is important to model yourself after medical doctors and nurses, in the sense of resource materials. While I believe everyone should have a copy of "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils" by Julia Lawless for reference, having more expensive and sometimes through titles such as the aforementioned will give you the edge you need. Many doctors spend over $200.00 for each book in their library. Knowledge does not come cheap and higher priced titles are many times ment to exclude lay people and be used primarily by practitioners or those serious about covering a given healing method.

As I find more resources for the practising or writing Aromatherapist, they will be featured in this on-going series of articles. If you know of new books, software, sites, etc., due contact me and I will scope it out.

-MAM

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