This is a beginner-friendly course designed to make essential oil chemistry simple and approachable. Based on Jimm Harrison’s Bastyr University certificate program, it gently introduces how essential oils work by clearly connecting their structure, effects, and everyday uses. With the help of the Structure–Effect Diagram, students learn an easy, practical way to understand oils—so chemistry feels less intimidating and more empowering.

Course curriculum

  1. Welcome to the course!

  2. Module 1: Basic Chemistry

  3. Module 2: Chemistry of Life and Plants

  4. Module 3: Secondary Metabolites

  5. Module 4: Multi-Target Action of Essential Oils

  6. Module 5: Essential Oil Chemistry Molecular Groups

About this course

  • $295.00
  • 25 lessons
  • Self-paced with lifetime access
  • 10-hr Certificate Course
  • Available in 3mos installment in Peso

Flexible Pricing

Invest in your learning TODAY. Choose what fits your budget without delaying your education.

Learning Objectives

In this stand-alone course, you will learn how to:

  • Understand essential oil chemistry as a holistic system, not isolated facts.

  • Use the Structure–Effect Diagram to guide therapeutic oil selection.

  • Read and interpret GC/MS reports without needing a chemistry background.

  • Apply chemistry to formulation, safety decisions, and real-world practice.

Course Feedback

5 star rating

A great way to understand EO Chemistry!! :)

Dominique Cerqueda

I never thought I would be able to comprehend chemistry, but Jimm is such a great teacher who has a way of explaining terms in a relatable format by giving situational examples where knowing essential oil chemistry can really help us understand mo...

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I never thought I would be able to comprehend chemistry, but Jimm is such a great teacher who has a way of explaining terms in a relatable format by giving situational examples where knowing essential oil chemistry can really help us understand more about each oil's therapeutic properties, and help us in our development of aromatherapy blends and treatments. I also appreciate the additional homework/worksheets given, which can be printed as further learning. Loved this course!

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Let's Demystify Chemistry

Essential oil chemistry made simple and practical with Jimm Harrison. Learn how key compounds influence aroma, safety, and therapeutic effects—so you can choose, blend, and use essential oils with clarity and confidence.

Core Instructor

Jimm Harrison

Jimm Harrison is an essential oil therapist, educator, and consultant with over 30 years of experience in spa, wellness, and professional education. He created and taught the Essential Oil and Aromatherapy Certificate Program at Bastyr University and has trained practitioners across the U.S. and internationally. His work focuses on plant-based therapeutic systems, essential oil chemistry, scent therapy, biophilia, and receptor-level science. Jimm works as a visiting expert for spas, resorts, retreats, and corporate wellness programs, and consults on signature scent development, treatment protocols, and plant-based product formulation.
Jimm Harrison