Valerie Ann Worwood is internationally acknowledged as one of the world's leading aromatherapists and is the author of the bestselling The Fragrant Pharmacy, The Fragrant Mind, and The Fragrant Heavens. Awarded a doctorate in 1990, she has served on the executive councils of the International Federation of Aromatherapists and the Aromatherapy Organizations Council, and has initiated research projects into the clinical use of essential oils.
More than a Smell - Essential Oils and the Search for Solutions to tackle Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) remains a significant global and public health challenge which has undermined the effectiveness of antimicrobial therapies. With persistent antimicrobial and multidrug-resistance worldwide and the slow pace to develop new antibiotics, the need to identify new therapeutic strategies is an urgent priority. Essential oils (EOs), with their complex bioactive compositions and multifaceted mechanisms of action, have emerged as promising complementary agents. This talk will demonstrate evidence showing the clinical potential of essential oils as adjunct therapies in the management of serious bacterial and fungal infections.
Professor Emmanuel Adukwu
Emmanuel Adukwu is a Professor of Applied Microbiology at the University of the West of England. He developed interest in essential oils over two decades ago and has conducted research into the antimicrobial effects of essential oils against a plethora of clinically relevant pathogens using a range of experimental approaches. He has directed several research studies at masters and doctoral level that involve the use of essential oils with several conference abstracts and published articles in this area. Emmanuel believes in this powerful resource from nature and it’s potential in managing the growing concern caused by antimicrobial resistant pathogens especially at a time where antibiotics and antifungals are less effective and in shortage.
Professor Adukwu is an educator and academic leader combining his research with senior leadership at the University of the West of England where he serves as Dean for Students
Adukwu, E. (2025, March 31-April 2). Dismantling awarding gaps [Conference session]. Minoritised Life Scientists Future Forum 2025, International Conference Centre (ICC) Birmingham. https://mlsfutureforum.com/widgets/emsSchedule/sessionDetail/?id=2902EAAC-BC13-4E72-88AC420522389DD2. Available from https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/14696476
Nourish London was founded by Dr Pauline Hili, a renowned expert in organic skincare with over 30 years experience harnessing the potent power of natural ingredients.
Combining her extensive knowledge of the skin and it's natural processes with her expertise in natural science, Dr Pauline created Nourish London, a range of scientifically crafted, highly effective, natural, organic and vegan skincare.
With a passion for science and innovation, Dr Pauline continues to develop all of Nourish London's award-winning products, pushing the boundaries of natural science to ensure each formulation delivers superior immediate and long-term skin benefits.
Salvatore Battaglia is a visionary leader in the world of aromatherapy, with over 40 years of experience harnessing the power of essential oils for natural health. His passion and lifelong commitment to natural healing has profoundly influenced the standards of professional aromatherapy education .
He is qualified in naturopathy, herbal medicine, acupuncture and aromatherapy, has a longstanding passion for naturopathy and is actively involved in professional associations and government committees to maintain and improve the quality of aromatherapy education.
She has been involved in aromatherapy education since 1988 and is frequently invited to speak at international conferences on aromatherapy, running a holistic and ethical business, and the importance of going natural and organic.
He has also served as an advisor to hospital and elderly care committees, helping to introduce clinical trials in pain management, intensive care, depression, dementia and elderly care.
In 1991, Salvatore founded Perfect Potion with the mission to naturally improve people's lives through certified organic aromatherapy products, natural skincare and essential oils. Perfect Potion has been recognised by government and industry regulators as the company that has set the benchmark for aromatherapy products in Australia.
Perfect Potion allows him to unleash his creativity and realize his dream of helping people take ownership of their health through natural healing through a wide range of holistic products and innovative educational programs.
Along with his wife Carolyn Stubbin, his beagle Lucy, and his cat Abby, he shares his passion for the world, natural remedies, and aromatherapy every day.
With 40 years of experience in the aromatherapy, education, natural health and wellbeing industries, Salvatore looks forward to taking you on an incredible journey to unlock the incredible potential and benefits of essential oils through his soon-to-be-launched online education platform.
About me
I am Dr Oluwadamilola Racheal Okeyoyin. I am a Lecturer in Biological Sciences, PhD funded by UWE Bristol and Pukka, Health Innovation West of England Fellow, Academic Member of the UWE Health Tech Hub and interdisciplinary researcher whose work spans microbiology, ethnopharmacology, analytical chemistry, and immersive science communication. My research investigates the therapeutic potential of herbal medicines, essential oils, and plant-based products, particularly their effects on the microbiome, and human health. Using advanced techniques, I explore how traditional herbal practices intersect with modern biomedical science, with the aim of uncovering new insights into antimicrobial resistance, inflammation, and metabolic health. Alongside laboratory-based research, I lead innovative projects that integrate VR, XR, and animation to democratise science and make complex biomedical concepts more accessible to wider audiences, including underserved communities.
My teaching is multidisciplinary as I have taught across biological sciences, midwifery, and food technologies, bringing together different perspectives to help students develop both specialist knowledge and transferable skills. My approach to teaching is student-centred and research-informed, with a strong emphasis on employability, professional identity, and fostering a sense of belonging for all learners. Beyond teaching and research, I have substantial leadership and governance experience within higher education. I have served as a panel member for the national Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), contributing to the evaluation of teaching quality and student outcomes across UK universities. I was formerly Vice President Education of The Students’ Union at UWE, where I championed student voice and worked on initiatives to improve equity and access in higher education. I have also served as Programme Officer for the NIHR INSIGHT Southwest Central Collaboration, ensuring delivery of research and training partnerships across UWE Bristol and Bournemouth University. In addition, I managed the Biomedicine in Allied Health Diverse Internship Programme (BIAHDIP), enhancing placement opportunities for marginalised students and promoting diversity in biomedical education and practice.
I am currently an Accountability Partner on the University of Bristol’s Reparative Futures Programme, supporting efforts to address systemic injustices arising from the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved African people. At UWE, I have contributed to institutional governance as a member of the University Validation Panel, Academic Board, and Research and Knowledge Exchange Committee, ensuring high standards in education, research, and academic practice. I also sit on the Steering committee, co-chair the Marketing Committee and lead on Outreach Engagement and Social Impact for the Minoritised Life Scientists Future Forum (MLSFF), Europe’s first dedicated conference for underrepresented scientists, where I oversee engagement, communications, and social impact strategy. These roles reflect my broader commitment to advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion within the biosciences and across the wider higher education landscape.
My work bridges science, culture, and community, from researching herbal medicines and essential oils to creating innovative ways of communicating science and leading on governance and outreach. I am committed to making knowledge inclusive, impactful, and collaborative, and welcome opportunities to work with colleagues, students, and partners across academia, healthcare, and industry.
Area of expertise
My expertise spans biomedical sciences, applied health, and inclusive education, alongside leadership, governance, and innovative science communication.
