Robert Tisserand

Robert Tisserand is a British aromatherapist, author, and educator, known for his work in the field of Aromatherapy and Essential Oils, closely associated with National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy and Alliance of International Aromatherapists. He has written extensively on the subject, drawing on the work of René-Maurice Gattefossé and Jean Valnet, and has been influenced by the teachings of Michel Vanhove and Pierre Franchomme. Tisserand's work has been recognized by organizations such as the National Institute of Medical Herbalism and the American Herbalists Guild, and he has collaborated with experts like Kurt Schnaubelt and Mindy Green.

● Early Life and Education

Robert Tisserand was born in London, England, and grew up in a family interested in Natural Health and Wellness, similar to the families of Rudolf Steiner and Adolf Just. He developed an early interest in Herbalism and Aromatherapy, inspired by the work of Hippocrates and Galen, and pursued his education in these fields, studying under renowned aromatherapists like Marguerite Maury and Micheline Arcier. Tisserand's educational background also includes studies in Botany and Phytochemistry at institutions like the University of London and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, where he was influenced by the research of Erich Klein and Walter Sneezeweed.

● Career

Tisserand's career in aromatherapy spans several decades, during which he has worked with various organizations, including the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists and the Aromatherapy Trade Council. He has also been involved in the development of Aromatherapy standards and guidelines, collaborating with experts like Tony Burfield and Peter Holmes, and has worked closely with companies like Mountain Rose Herbs and Plant Therapy. Tisserand's work has taken him to various parts of the world, including France, Australia, and United States, where he has lectured at institutions like the University of California, Los Angeles and the Australian College of Natural Medicine.

● Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Tisserand is a strong advocate for the safe and effective use of Essential Oils in Aromatherapy, emphasizing the importance of proper Blending and Dilution techniques, as taught by Jean-Marie Huard and Daniel Pénoël. He has written extensively on the subject, drawing on the research of Martin Watt and Rhiannon Lewis, and has developed guidelines for the use of Essential Oils in various applications, including Massage Therapy and Aromatic Medicine. Tisserand's work in this area has been influenced by the teachings of Christine Saunders and Patricia Davis, and he has collaborated with experts like Gabriel Mojay and Francesco Bagagli.

● Publications and Media

Tisserand has authored several books on Aromatherapy and Essential Oils, including Essential Oil Safety and The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, which have been translated into multiple languages and have become standard references in the field, alongside the works of Valerie Ann Worwood and Julia Lawless. He has also contributed to various Aromatherapy and Health publications, such as Aromatherapy Today and The International Journal of Aromatherapy, and has been featured in media outlets like The New York Times and BBC Radio. Tisserand's work has been recognized by organizations like the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy and the Alliance of International Aromatherapists, and he has received awards like the Alliance of International Aromatherapists Lifetime Achievement Award.

● Criticisms and Controversies

Tisserand's work has not been without controversy, with some critics arguing that his guidelines for Essential Oil use are too restrictive, as expressed by Sydney Walker and Liz Fulcher. Others have criticized his stance on the use of Essential Oils in Aromatic Medicine, citing the work of Didier Dumont and Pierre Franchomme. However, Tisserand's commitment to Evidence-Based Practice and his emphasis on the importance of Safety and Efficacy in Aromatherapy have earned him the respect of many in the field, including Kurt Schnaubelt and Mindy Green, and he continues to be a leading voice in the Aromatherapy community, alongside experts like Christine Saunders and Gabriel Mojay.