Plant Science for Aromatherapists – with Dr. Keith Shawe, Ph.D., botanist and educator
In this two day intensive workshop, Dr. Shawe aims to connect information on the distribution, evolutionary relationships of aromatic plant groups, plant anatomy, morphology, chemotypes, and plant taxonomy in an intricate but understandable framework for the therapeutic work of aromatherapists. The information is presented in the form of lectures and conversations that include reference to the relevant social, conservation, harvesting and sustainable use issues that often go unexamined within the industry. Important aromatic plant families are discussed in terms of both their physical and chemical attributes. Unique slide shows based on Dr. Shawe’s travel around the world are used to illustrate the use of aromatic plants by indigenous peoples, key identification characteristics of selected species, and the anatomical structures involved in essential oil storage. Plant samples and essential oil samples are used to enhance the wealth of written materials that each participant receives.