Originally published in Llewellyn's New Times, issue number 901 (January 1990).

by Steve Deger

I recently had a chance to speak with Scott Cunningham—author of such titles as The Complete Book of Incense, Oils and Brews and Wicca—about his best-selling book Magical Aromatherapy.

New Times: Could you tell us just what aromatherapy is all about?

Scott: Basically, it involves the use of true essential oils for healing purposes. Interest initially arose in the 1930s, and is increasing once again. It is an accepted part of the medical establishment in Europe, where doctors prescribe essential oils to their ailing patients.

New Times: Just what distinguishes Magical Aromatherapy from all other aromatherapy books?

Scott: My new book shows how these essential oils actually affect us on all levels, physically, emotionally, and psychically. This book is about merging the energies of plants with our own energies to change our physical world. It’s a book of scent magic.

New Times: In what ways can a person use magical aromatherapy to change his or her life?

Scott: In just about any way. When charged with visualization techniques, it can produce enhanced sexual relations, protection, love, health, money, peace, psychic awareness…the door is pretty much open.

New Times: There must be so many essential oils and plant extracts to choose from. Selecting a scent for a magical purpose must be maddening!

Scott: It can be if you don’t know what you are looking for. That’s why I’ve included tables of correspondences in the back of the book. Tables for aromas of the seasons, days of the week, the planets and the zodiac are listed, as well as tables for one’s magical purpose. Aphrodisiacs, beauty enhancers, memory inducers, astral projection aids, and more are listed there. I’ve also listed aromatherapy organizations and distributors of essential oils and plant products.

New Times: Can you recommend any herbs that my help me in my study of aromatherapy?

Scott: Lavender would be a pretty safe bet—it is often used to stimulate the conscious mind and induce love—including love for one’s self. It’s also cheap and available everywhere. Magical Aromatherapy describes the magical effects of nearly 100 other plants and oils, so there is plenty of room for you to experiment to see what works best for you.