Book Review by Stacy Miller -Continued -
The author makes it clear in the chapter on research that we should thoroughly understand research requirements if we�d like to help aromatherapy �stand up for itself in any forum�. His descriptions of the types of trials and groups involved in research, along with the value of both single case studies and treatment control group proved an interesting introduction to the subject for me. (I�ve not seen research touched on in-depth in other books.)
One disappointment in the book was the confusing section on chemistry. No matter how many times I revisit this chapter, I just don�t get it. (Once I have a better handle on chemistry basics I�d like to read it again to see if it makes more sense.) I have to admit that I don�t think my impression was improved after seeing parts of this section critiqued on Tony Burfield�s �Bollocks Page�. http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~nodice/
The chapter on pharmacology includes detailed definitions of terms commonly used in aromatherapy to describe the therapeutic actions for essential oils. I think this would be a good reference for aromatherapy students needing to familiarize themselves with odd little terms such as diaphoretic and emmenagogue.
I found his explanation of olfaction quite easy to follow and just wish I�d had this book when I covered olfaction in an aromatherapy course I was taking.
�Pharmacokinetics� describes how the oils work within the body (absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion). I have to give the author credit for actually referring to, and presenting references on the oft-contentious subject of skin absorption of essential oils. Many authors simply state that the oils are absolutely and completely absorbed by the skin and that�s that. (I�ll stay on the fence until I see conclusive evidence or research either way.)
The safety chapter is quite comprehensive and covers oral and dermal toxicity, skin reactions, carcinogenesis, neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and pregnancy hazards.
Unit 3, �The Remedies� includes profiles of 64 essential oils, 16 carrier oils, 4 infusions and 26 hazardous oils.
The essential oil profiles are pretty extensive. For what it�s worth, he quotes quite liberally from Julia Lawless, Peter Holmes, Suzanne Fischer-Rizzi and Patricia Davis for the �mind and spirit� indications of the oils, Peter Holmes (again) for the �body� indications, and Dr. Brian Lawrence for the �chemical constituents� of the oils.
He also profiles 26 oils deemed to be hazardous. (I�d like to see this expanded and updated in future printings, given all the new and questionable oils being marketed today.)
The chapter on carrier oils is the most comprehensive I�ve ever come across� in fact it may be too comprehensive seeing that he includes quite a bit of information on their nutritional/internal value as well as dermal! I suppose this makes sense if we allow for the fact that many external properties attributed to carrier oils are said to be taken from internal use. [Per Sylla Sheppard-Hanger in her �Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual.]