This was the first book I bought on essential oils. I had just started on an aromatherapy course, and the tutor highly recommended this as a good start. It has served me well for decades and is still highly relevant today.
Table of Contents
Who Is Julia Lawless?
Julia Lawless is one of the most respected names in the world of aromatherapy. She is a practising aromatherapist, researcher, and herbalist trained at the London School of Aromatherapy. She founded Aqua Oleum, an essential oil company renowned for its purity and quality. Her books have become go-to guides for generations of natural healers, massage therapists, and plant lovers.
The book came out in 1992, and Lawless really aimed to create a dependable guide for anyone getting into essential oils—and she totally nailed it!
What’s The Encyclopaedia of Essential Oils All About?
This book is part textbook, part therapeutic manual, and it’s been a staple on aromatherapists’ shelves for over 30 years. It offers in-depth monographs on over 160 essential oils, complete with their:
- Latin names
- Extraction methods
- Aroma profiles
- Botanical characteristics
- Key therapeutic actions
- Traditional uses
- Safety data and contraindications
This goes beyond massage blends or diffuser recipes; it’s for those seeking a deeper understanding of essential oils.
If you’re new to making massage oils or natural cosmetics, The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils is an excellent resource to start with. It really helps lay down the basics!
What’s Good About It?
Clear, accessible structure – Each essential oil has its own profile, making it quick to reference and easy to understand.
Covers a wide range of oils – From the popular (lavender, tea tree, rosemary) to the lesser-known (tagetes, elemi, spikenard).
Therapeutic and practical – Includes physical, emotional, and spiritual uses.
Safety first – With proper cautions and contraindications where relevant.
Timeless tone – It’s written with authority, but without being overly academic or clinical.
Great for – aromatherapists, massage therapists, holistic healers, DIYers, herbalists, and anyone who loves working with plants and oils.
What’s Not So Great?
The book came out in 1992, so it doesn’t cover some of the newer essential oils like Plai. However, it has been updated to include Fragonia™, so make sure you buy an updated copy.
The layout, while functional, feels a bit dated compared to more visual, modern guides.
This book doesn’t really get into cosmetic formulations too much. If you need tips for your skin type or want to learn about compatible preservatives, consider checking this out along with another newer book.
The book thoroughly covers the chemical constituents of the essential oils, but it does not go into the terpenes.
Why It’s Relevant to 420Formulator Readers
If you’re formulating topicals, salves, balms, or aromatherapy blends, this is a fantastic reference book to have on your shelf. Even though it’s an older title, it’s packed with foundational aromatherapy knowledge that hasn’t gone out of style.
It’s useful for researching essential oils for skin issues, mood support, and pain relief, which work well with cannabis-based products. You’ll learn about the plant chemistry, safety information, and the background of the oils you’re using, which is essential for every formulator.
Plus, it aligns with the 420Formulator ethos of blending nature, science, and tradition to create effective, honest products.
Summary Verdict
The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils is one of those classic books every aromatherapist should own. While it’s not flashy or filled with glossy images, its content is rich, reliable, and rooted in real plant medicine. A must-have if you’re serious about essential oils.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highly recommended for:
- Essential oil lovers.
- Professional aromatherapists.
- Practitioners of holistic wellness.
- DIY skincare formulators.
- Cannabis topical makers want to expand their essential oil knowledge.
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