10 Recommended Books for Enjoying the World of Aroma and Herbs
The gentle scent of lavender, the mild taste of chamomile tea, the refreshing green notes of rosemary—surely many of you have experienced being healed by the scents and powers of plants.
The world of aromatherapy and herbs is not just about enjoying scents as a hobby; it is also a treasure trove of practical wisdom for self-care and improving the quality of life. However, when you try to learn from books, there are so many genres—encyclopedias of essential oils, herbal tea recipe books, scientific explanations—that it is easy to get lost and wonder, 'Where should I start?'
Therefore, this time, for those interested in aromatherapy and herbs, we have carefully selected 10 recommended books from a wide range of perspectives, including introductory books, specialized encyclopedias, scientific readings, and practical recipe collections. Whether you are picking up essential oils for the first time or already enjoying a life with herbs, you are sure to find your 'next book.' Let's get started.
'The Textbook of Aromatherapy' by Fumio Wada (Shinsei Publishing)
If you are starting aromatherapy, this is the first book you should pick up. As the subtitle 'The most detailed and easy to understand' suggests, you can learn systematically from this one book, from basic knowledge of essential oils to practical applications.
The author, Fumio Wada, is a long-time British IFA-certified aromatherapist. In this book, 53 types of essential oils and 19 types of carrier oils are carefully explained with beautiful photographs. It is a pleasure that it can also be used as a dictionary, as the characteristics of the scent, effects on the mind and body, and precautions for use are summarized clearly for each essential oil.
Particularly practical are the aroma recipes by symptom. Blend recipes derived from the author's many years of experience are introduced for common daily ailments such as headaches, stiff shoulders, insomnia, sensitivity to cold, and rough skin. Moreover, they are arranged so that they can be tried immediately at home, so you can put them into practice from the day you read them.
Treatment techniques and how to make aroma crafts (such as handmade lotions and bath salts) are also explained in detail with step-by-step photos, so even beginners can work on them without getting lost. While it is an introductory book, it has enough information to satisfy those who are active as therapists, making it a book truly worthy of being called a 'textbook'.
'The New Aromatherapy Encyclopedia' by Junko Kida (Takahashi Shoten)
There are many encyclopedias for looking up information on essential oils, but what sets this book apart from others is its exquisite balance of being 'interesting and useful.' It is not just a list of data; it is a great charm that it can be enjoyed as reading material, as it includes history, episodes, and trivia related to each essential oil.
The essential oils listed cover a wide range, from standard ones popular overseas to essential oils unique to Japan such as Yuzu and Hinoki. Since there are surprisingly few encyclopedias that properly cover Japanese essential oils, this content is especially appreciated by those who want to enjoy aroma while living in Japan.
On each essential oil page, basic information such as scent characteristics, ingredient data, effects on the mind and body, and compatibility for blending is compactly summarized. Thanks to the beautiful illustrations and clean layout, the information is easy to absorb, and it is a book that is fun just to flip through.
Beginners can start by opening the page of a scent they are curious about, and it is an encyclopedia where even those with some knowledge can make new discoveries. Keeping one copy at hand will be a reliable ally when choosing essential oils or thinking about blends.
'Why Does Scent Affect the Brain? - Aromatherapy and Advanced Medicine' by Seiji Shioda (NHK Publishing)
'The scent of aroma is somehow pleasant'—I think many people feel that way, but this book clearly explains the scientific mechanism behind that 'somehow'.
The author, Seiji Shioda, is a leading expert who has been researching the relationship between the sense of smell and the brain for many years as a professor at Hoshi University of Pharmacy. In this book, the process by which scent molecules bind to olfactory receptors in the nose and are transmitted to the brain as electrical signals is carefully explained. The mechanism by which scent information reaches the limbic system (the area that controls emotions and memory) directly is a unique feature that only the sense of smell has among the five senses, and it is an important point in understanding why aromatherapy affects the mind and body.
Even more interesting are the application examples in medical settings. Examples of symptoms of dementia patients improving with the scent of aroma and examples of aromatherapy being used to alleviate pain caused by cancer are introduced. Many people will be surprised that 'scent' is going beyond the realm of relaxation and is beginning to play a part in advanced medicine.
It is easy to read in a new book size, and technical terms are explained in plain language, so even those who are not good at science can read it with peace of mind. This is a book I highly recommend to those who want to understand aroma not only from the perspective of 'sensation' but also from the perspective of 'science'.
'The Science of Plant Scents - Why Does It Balance the Mind and Body?' by Seiji Shioda and Fumiko Takenoya (NHK Publishing)
This is a book that summarizes the latest research results published in 2024, about 12 years after the aforementioned 'Why Does Scent Affect the Brain?'. It updates the theme presented in the previous book, 'scent affects the brain,' with more advanced knowledge.
This book explains the diverse effects that plant scents provide, such as reducing stress and anxiety, improving brain function, and alleviating or preventing persistent illnesses, based on the latest evidence. Co-author Fumiko Takenoya is well-versed in the practice of aromatherapy, and the book is characterized by a balanced discussion of scientific findings and practical applications.
The benefits of "phytoncides" (volatile substances released by forest trees), which have been attracting attention in recent years, are also covered in detail. You will understand why forest bathing refreshes the mind and body as the mechanisms are being scientifically elucidated, and you can once again realize the significance of incorporating plant scents into your daily life.
The structure is such that it can be fully understood by those who have read the previous book, as well as those starting with this one. It is the best introductory book for those who want to know "why it is good" rather than just thinking "it seems good."
"Encyclopedia of Medical Herbs: Revised New Edition - Basic Data on 100 Major Species" by Shinichiro Hayashi (Tokyodo Shuppan)
This is a book I can confidently recommend to those who want to learn about herbs thoroughly from the perspective of "medicinal plants." The author, Shinichiro Hayashi, serves as the chairman of the Japan Medical Herb Association and has dedicated himself to the popularization of medical herbs based on his professional knowledge as a pharmacist.
In this book, basic data such as scientific names, parts used, main components, actions, indications, and safety are comprehensively summarized for 100 medical herbs widely used around the world. The explanation of each herb is based on scientific evidence, making it a highly reliable source of information.
In the revised new edition, new research data and clinical information accumulated since the first edition have been reflected, making the content even more substantial. For example, the explanations for the benefits of well-known herbs, such as the immunostimulant effects of Echinacea and the antidepressant effects of St. John's Wort, have been updated based on the latest findings.
It is a reliable book not only for those who want to incorporate herbs into their daily self-care but also for those aiming to obtain herb certifications, as it serves as a reference book for exam preparation. Having it on hand provides the peace of mind of a true "encyclopedia," allowing you to quickly check information on any herb you are curious about.
"Herb Tea Encyclopedia: Revised Edition" by Kaoru Sasaki (Ikeda Shoten)
If you want to incorporate herbal tea into your life but have questions like, "There are so many types, I don't know which one to choose," or "What is the difference between drinking them single or blended?"—this book will address those concerns.
The supervisor, Kaoru Sasaki, is a well-known figure in the world of herbs who has been involved in the popularization of aroma and herbs for many years as a partner of "Seikatsu no Ki" (Tree of Life). In this book, 115 types of herbal teas, focusing on those that are easy to obtain, are carefully selected, and their respective actions, aroma and taste characteristics, recommended ways to drink, and how to incorporate them into daily life are carefully introduced.
Especially useful are the blend recipes according to symptoms and purposes. Optimal blends are proposed for daily minor ailments and specific goals, such as when you want to relax, when you want to improve your digestive health, or when you are conscious of beautiful skin. The amounts and estimated steeping times for drinking them as singles are also listed, so you will never be confused about how to brew them.
In the revised edition, the content of the first edition has been reviewed, and information tailored to the latest herb trends has been added. The full-color photos are also beautiful, making it a book that soothes the heart just by flipping through the pages. I recommend it as a partner for your herbal tea life—keep a copy in your kitchen and flip through the pages according to your mood and physical condition of the day.
"A Handy Guide to Herbs That Work for Mind and Body" by Fumie Maki (NHK Publishing)
"I'm interested in herbs, but not enough to buy essential oils or supplements. I want to enjoy herbs more casually, as an extension of my daily life."—This "handy guide" is perfect for such people.
The feature of this book is that it covers a wide range of herb utilization methods along three axes: "knowing," "using," and "eating." It covers not only Western herbs but also familiar Japanese medicinal plants (Wa-herbs) such as houttuynia, mugwort, and shiso, introducing a total of 102 types of herbs. Since many of the materials can be obtained at supermarkets or in the garden, it is great that you can practice immediately without needing specialized knowledge.
It is packed with practical applications rooted in daily life, such as how to brew herbal tea, as well as recipes for homemade tinctures, oils, herbal liquors, and preserved foods. Suggestions like "relieving coldness with a herbal bath" or "adding an accent to dishes with herbal vinegar" are full of hints that will make your daily life a little richer.
Reading this book makes you realize that you don't have to do anything special; just by paying attention to the plants around you, the quality of your life will change. It is the perfect book for those who want to start by "trying them out" without overthinking herbs.
"The Complete Guide to Herbs That Work for Me" by Ai Kobayakawa (Shufunotomo)
This is a book on herb utilization by herb concierge Ai Kobayakawa, also known for her appearance on the TV show "Matsuko no Shiranai Sekai," which focuses on women's mental and physical ailments. As symbolized by the title "That Work for Me," this book has a slightly different flavor from general herb guidebooks, valuing the importance of each reader finding the "herb that suits them."
The first half introduces basic information and benefits of representative herbs. While this section can be used like an encyclopedia, the true value of this book shines in the recipe section in the second half. It proposes various approaches—such as herbal teas, herbal dishes, and aroma baths—for concerns that women often face, including PMS, menopausal discomfort, stress-induced insomnia, and rough skin.
The recipes are all easy to incorporate into daily life, and the book is convenient enough to quickly open and refer to whenever you feel a bit tired. The photos and illustrations are approachable, creating an atmosphere where even those new to the world of herbs can read through without feeling intimidated.
This is a book I highly recommend to those who want to learn how to use herbs not for someone else, but for themselves.
"New Edition: Aroma & Herb Therapy Taught by a Doctor" by Reiko Hashiguchi (Mynavi Publishing)
For those who are interested in aroma and herbs but still have lingering questions like "Do they really work?" or "What is the medical perspective?", this book should provide great peace of mind. The author, Reiko Hashiguchi, is an internal medicine physician at the "Ryokuin Clinic," where she incorporates aromatherapy and herb therapy into her actual medical practice.
The biggest feature of this book is that the self-care methods using essential oils and herbs are supervised from a doctor's perspective. Recommended essential oils, herbs, and specific usage methods are organized for common daily symptoms such as headaches, colds, gastrointestinal distress, stiff shoulders, insomnia, menstrual pain, and hay fever.
The content has been updated as a "New Edition," and it includes plenty of actual case studies where essential oils and herbs helped improve symptoms. With these realistic episodes accumulated in a medical setting, you can read through it while feeling convinced, thinking, "I see, so that's how you can use them."
Another point is that the essential oils used are limited to one or two types, avoiding complex blends, so even beginners can put them into practice immediately. This is a reliable guidebook for those who want to know the effects of aroma and herbs backed by "science" and "medicine."
"A New Textbook of Phytotherapy: Enjoying History and Stories" by Shino Nakamura (Shoeisha)
The last book I will introduce sheds light on the world of phytotherapy from a slightly different angle. This book focuses not on the "how-to" of aroma and herbs, but on their "stories."
Fragrances used as preservatives for mummies in ancient Egypt, herbs packed into the "beak masks" worn by doctors during the plague, spices prized as tributes to powerful figures, and incense essential for religious rituals—as you open this book, you will see how the scent and healing power of plants have been deeply involved in every aspect of human history. Episodes that stimulate intellectual curiosity appear one after another, such as how essential oil distillation technology was born from alchemy and the relationship between witches and medicinal herbs.
A major appeal of this book is that it provides an overview of the historical background and development of various fields of phytotherapy, such as aroma, herbs, and flower essences. By learning not just the "how-to" from practical books, but also the culture and philosophy at the "roots" of phytotherapy, your daily time with aroma and herbs will surely become deeper and richer.
This is a rewarding read for those who love plants and fantasy, as well as those interested in the world's medicinal herb cultures.
Conclusion
In this article, I introduced 10 books to help you enjoy the world of aroma and herbs.
I selected a wide lineup, ranging from books easy to pick up as an introduction, encyclopedias for looking up details on essential oils and herbs, reading material explaining scientific mechanisms, recipe collections for daily life, to a book that re-examines phytotherapy from the perspective of history and culture.
The charm of aroma and herbs lies in the fact that "knowing" and "using" them directly leads to daily comfort. First, try picking up a book that interests you and start by turning the pages. The time spent reading while smelling your favorite essential oil will surely be something special.
I hope this article serves as a catalyst for a wonderful encounter between you and aroma/herbs.
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