Essential Oils

Book Preface

Aromatic essential oils have been used for thousands of years as traditional remedies to enhance health and well-being. The ability of fragrances to affect mood and atmosphere has long been recognized, and different cultures have made use of the aromatic plants available to them for spiritual rituals and personal use. The appeal of essential oils has endured, and today the practice of aromatherapy is well established in the lexicon of natural health.

Essential Oils Today

The essential oil trade emerged about 200 years ago for use in the perfumery and food industries. In recent years, an increased emphasis on holistic healing has led to a resurgence of interest in the traditional use of essential oils for health, well-being, and beauty. Pleasurable and versatile, essential oils can be used as remedies for ailments, used in cosmetics and fragrances, and, increasingly, are used in the fast-growing trend for diffusing aromas to enhance living spaces and create a sense of well-being. The growth of interest in essential oils also coincides with a rise in stressrelated conditions associated with hectic modern-day living. With their ability to soothe body and mind, essential oils are especially helpful for combatting the effects of chronic stress. At Neal’s Yard Remedies, we have sold pure and natural essential oils since our first store opened in 1981, and have witnessed, and been part of, the growth of interest in essential oils, as more and more people look to natural ingredients to improve their lifestyle and enhance well-being.

A greater understanding There’s an art and a science to using essential oils. In the past decades, the aromatherapy industry’s understanding of how to use oils and their properties has grown. The traditional use of oils in different cultures is being researched in laboratories, and clinical trials are being performed to enhance our understanding of how and why oils act as they do. In this book, we impart some of this knowledge to help you learn how to enjoy oils in your daily beauty and health regimen. With a little knowledge and common sense, oils can be used by everyone. This book will help you become confident incorporating these wonderful essences into a more natural lifestyle. For serious or chronic health concerns, seek medical advice and see a professional aromatherapist.