My comments: Originally published in 1977, this revised new release of one of the classics in the field is a delight. Not necessarily the 'first' aromatherapy book for a beginner, I found it filled many gaps in my knowledge. Tisserand writes at length of the history of aromatic healing, presents his knowledge of the oils with an emphasis on holistic healing, the energy of the essential oils. He gives us a solid introduction to various healing modalities using the oils, wonderfully detailed introductions to 29 essences, a therapeutic index suggesting treatment for over 100 ailments. Tables of evaporation rates and odor intensity are provided as guides to blending; a wonderful chapter on different massage therapies (his explanation of reflexology is the best I've seen), and a complete bibliography. This book widened my horizons immensely and I highly recommend it