Handbook of Essential Oils: Science, Technology, and Applications

Oversized hardcover, xii+975pp + 4 pages of colour plates, shipping weight over 2kg, NOT ex-library. Minor wear only, book is clean and bright with unmarked text, no inscriptions, no stamps, firmly bound. -- A thorough treatment of essential oils (EOs), addressing their scientific, technological and commercial dimensions. It covers 22 chapters, providing a progression from basic scientific concepts through applied technologies, biological functionality, industrial deployment and regulatory considerations. The content integrates chemistry, pharmacology, botany, industrial processes and legislation, serving both as a foundational resource and a reference for research and professional application. The opening chapters establish the conceptual and historical context for EO study. A detailed overview of the history and development of EO research highlights the evolution of extraction and analytical techniques, with specific attention to industrial and laboratory-scale practices. Chap.3 addresses the biological sources of EOs, covering plant taxonomy, biogeography and agronomic factors, followed by a technical account of production methodologies including steam distillation, solvent extraction and supercritical fluid extraction. Chap.5 discusses the chemistry of essential oils, describing biosynthetic pathways for major classes such as monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids and phenylpropanoids. Chap.6 introduces chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques used to identify EO components, including GC-MS, HPLC and multidimensional techniques, and touches on adulteration detection and quality control. A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the biological and pharmacological properties of EOs. Chap.7 presents a constituent-based approach to EO toxicology and safety evaluation, while Chap.8 addresses EO metabolism in humans and animals. Chap.9 reviews diverse biological activities including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and penetration enhancement properties. Chap.10 examines EO effects on the central nervous system. Clinical and therapeutic applications are treated in Chapters 11-13. Chap.11 discusses phytotherapeutic uses, excluding aromatherapy, through evidence from peer-reviewed medical literature. Chap.12 focuses on in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of EOs listed in the European Pharmacopoeia, providing extensive tabulated data. Chap.13 addresses aromatherapy from a scientific standpoint, analyzing topical and inhalation uses across various conditions, while acknowledging current evidence limitations. Biotransformation processes are examined in Chap.14 & 15. They explore how EO components are enzymatically modified by microorganisms, algae and animals, leading to the formation of novel compounds of potential industrial and pharmacological interest. Chap.16 examines industrial uses, such as flavor and fragrance formulations, and includes data on global consumption patterns. Applications extend to food, cosmetics, oral care and household products. Encapsulation technologies (Chap.17) are explored in the context of controlled release systems, highlighting classical and advanced delivery platforms relevant to pharmaceuticals, food and animal feed. Chap.18 introduces aroma-vital cuisine, where EOs are used as culinary enhancers, connecting sensory appeal with functional properties. Veterinary applications are outlined in Chap.19, including disease management and animal husbandry. Trade practices and global markets are reviewed in Chap.20. Storage and transportation logistics are covered in Chap.21, with emphasis on EO stability and safety regulations during distribution. The final chapter addresses EU legislation on flavors and fragrances, providing a summary of regulatory frameworks affecting EO use, particularly in consumer products. This section offers insight into the intersection of scientific research and policy, including REACH and related directives.…