Julia Lawless has established herself as a worldwide authority on aromatherapy, and this book showcases her knowledge among gorgeous color photos.

The ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all practiced aromatherapy, but it is only in the last decade that the benefits of aromatic oils have been generally recognized. This encyclopedia of remedies and techniques covers every application of aromatherapy from cosmetic and clinical to perfumery and explains how aromatic oils can be used simply and effectively to treat a wide variety of health complaints. Full-color illustrations.

The complete in the title is key--besides covering the history and chemistry behind of the art of aromatherapy, you'll find tips for using aromatherapy for cosmetic and medicinal purposes--in oils, creams, steams, potpourri, perfumes, and flower waters. A large chunk of the book is devoted to massage techniques--sensual massage, baby massage, and reflexology. But the aromatic remedies for everything from athlete's foot and arthritis to varicose veins is what makes this book supremely useful for family health. The book finishes with a very handy index of essential oils, with half a page devoted to each, featuring safety data, identifying photos of the plant, and thorough lists of characteristics and actions.