Essential oil of rosemary is a popular, versatile oil. The rosemary bush, from which the oil comes, belongs to the mint family, which also includes basil, lavendar, myrtle and sage. The essential oil of rosemary is extracted from the leaves and flowering tops by steam distillation. The rosemary plant is bushy with small leaves. It grows well in soil with moderate sun exposure. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has a wonderfully uplifting taste and aroma.
Rosemary in its different forms has been used throughout history in different cultures. The Romans used it in religious and wedding ceremonies as well as in cooking and medicinal practices. The plant has a warm, astringent taste and is often added to soups, sauces, roasts, stews and stuffings. The Ancient Egyptians used it as incense. Rosemary was considered sacred by the Egyptians, Hebrews, Greeks and Romans. In the Middle Ages, it was used to ward off evil spirits and to give protection from the plague. Essential oil of rosemary has a refreshing smell. It is clear in color and watery in texture.
Amazing Health Benefits of Essential Oil of Rosemary
Rosemary oil is renowned for its use in hair care. It can be added to hair care products and regular use stimulates the hair follicles, resulting in longer, stronger hair. It slows down hair loss and greying hair and is a great tonic against baldness. It is of great benefit to the scalp, preventing dryness, flakiness and dandruff. Application of rosemary oil assists in the control of oil production over the entire scalp.
Along with hair care, rosemary is a favorite for use in skin care and skin care products. With its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, it is great for clearing up dermatitis, eczema and acne. It can be blended with other oils and a carrier oil and used in massage to improve skin tone and reduce dryness. It contributes to giving the skin a healthy and youthful glow. Rosemary oil has an anti-ageing effect on the skin. It reduces swelling, stimulates cell regeneration, firms the skin, enhances skin tone and increases blood circulation to the skin. Its anti-oxidants and vitamins give the skin a youthful look. It can also decrease swellings from wounds and insect bites. Rosemary is great to use in a mouthwash. Its disinfectant qualities eliminate oral bacteria and prevent bad breath, plaque build up, gingivitis and cavities. It can also be used in a gargle to swish around in the mouth but not to swallow.
Rosemary has achieved recognition for boosting mental activity. It can improve memory retention and focus and is recommended to assist with studying. The carnosic acid it contains has neuro-protective properties, which enhance mood and memory as well as provide benefits to Alzheimer's patients. It is a mood uplifter and can reduce feelings of stress in anxiety sufferers. Inhaling rosemary has a calming effect on the nervous system.
Rosemary functions as an immune-system strengthener. It has active anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic components, which give protection against a variety of diseases. It contains carnosol and carnosic acid, which inhibit the creation of excessive nitric oxide, therefore making it useful against inflammation.
Rosemary can act as an appetite stimulant and the small leaves from the plant are often added to dishes to assist digestion. Rosemary can relieve indigestion, flatulence, cramps and bloating, as well as assist in detoxification of the liver. It helps to reduce cirrohsis of the liver, which is one of the slowest organs to heal. Being slightly diuretic, rosemary can assist kidney function, flushing out toxins during urination. Again, the oil should not be ingested orally but can be applied through massage or inhalatiion. However, the leaves of the plant can be added to dishes. The plant is used in many cultures to reiieve upset stomachs and regulate bowel movement.
Rosemary is also known for its ability to aid blood flow and circulation so it is valuable for adding to an oil blend for massage. It boosts the production of red blood cells, which oxygenates the vital organ systems in the body and facilitates cell repair.
Rosemary has long been popular for its ability to relieve pain. It can be topically applied to the painful area, in the case of arthritis or joint pain, or inhaled, as in the case of migraines. Rosemary assists with health of the respiratory system.Inahling it can relieve congestion, allergies, cold and influenza and general respiratory congestion. It also eases sinus pain.
How To Use Essential Oil of Rosemary
A few drops can be added to a bowel of hot water and the steam can be inhaled to relieve migraines and respiratory congestion as well as to induce relaxation and relieve stress. Rosemary can also be rubbed onto the temples to relieve migraines and applied topically to other painful areas to reduce pain. It can be added to a bath to reduce the pain of arthritis.
Rosemary can be used in the practice of oil pulling. Add a drop to coconut oil and swish it around in the mouth to relieve dental issues and clean bacteria from the mouth. The plant can be used to make a mouthwash. Boil it and strain the liquid and keep it in the fridge. Rosemary is popular for use in massage. It blends well with basil, frankinscense, lavendar, peppermint and eucalyptus.
Rub a drop of rosemary onto the bottom of the feet or the stomach to assist digestion.
To calm the nerves, apply a drop to the hands, rub together and cup over the nose and mouth and inhale.
A drop of rosemary can be added to shampoos, conditioners and skin care products to benefit the hair and skin and to stimulate the growth of healthy, shiny hair.
It can also be added to pet shampoos to help in the growth of a shiny coat.
A drop of rosemary and lavendar can be added to almond oil and applied to puffy or red skin under the eyes.
Massage one or two drops onto the chest and throat to relieve a cough. Repeat this every few hours.
The Risks of Essential Oil of Rosemary
The use of essential oil of rosemary should be avoided during pregnancy and in cases of epilepsy.
It could also aggravate high blood pressure.
Before use, do a patch test on the skin to test for skin sensitivity. Rosemary is a member of the mint family so should be avoided if there is a sensitivity to other mint family members as it could cause and allergic reaction.
Excessive use of any oil can lead to sensitization. It should be kept away from the eyes, ears and nose.
Storing Essential Oil of Rosemary
As with all essential oils, essential oil of rosemary should be purchased and stored in dark, glass bottles and kept in a cool, dark place out of direct sunlight.
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