Taking a look at Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary Essential Oil - Rosmarinus officinalis

Plant Family: Labiatae

Rosemary essential oil, latin name Rosmarinus officinalis, is a highly versatile and aromatic oil that has been used for centuries for its numerous therapeutic properties. Derived from the leaves of the rosemary plant, this essential oil is not only popular in the field of aromatherapy but also widely used in various beauty, health, and culinary practices.

One of the earliest plants to be used for food, medicine and magic, being regarded as sacred in many civilisations sprigs of Rosemary were burnt in shrines in ancient Greece. Fumigations were used in the middle ages to drive away evil spirits and to protect against plague and serious illness. It is currently in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia as a specific for “depressive states with general debility and indications of cardiovascular weakness”  

One of the most notable features of Rosemary essential oil is its invigorating and refreshing scent. Often described as herbaceous and woody, the aroma of Rosemary oil is known to stimulate the senses and promote mental clarity. It has been used as a natural remedy to improve focus and concentration, making it a popular choice for students and professionals alike.

In addition to its aromatic qualities, Rosemary essential oil possesses several health benefits. It has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, making it effective in treating minor wounds, cuts, and bruises. When applied topically, Rosemary oil can help soothe and alleviate pain associated with muscle sprains, arthritis, and headaches.

Rosemary essential oil stimulates the scalp, helping with healthy hair growth and improving scalp health. It has been used in hair care products to combat dandruff, promote hair thickness, and strengthen hair follicles. Massaging the scalp with a blend including Rosemary oil can also help stimulate blood circulation, which contributes to healthy hair growth.

The essential oil has many benefits on the nervous system helping relive headaches, neuralgia, mental fatigue, nervous exhaustion and stress related disorders and is excellent when used in a diffuser when studying or to aid concentration.

Rosemary is not limited to its external uses; In the form of herb or hydrosol it can be used in cooking and food preparation. It adds a unique and aromatic flavour to various dishes, particularly those with poultry, lamb, or roasted vegetables. It’s not just wonderfully flavoursome, rosemary is known for its antioxidant properties, which can help combat free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.

When using Rosemary essential oil, it is important to dilute it with a carrier oil such as Grapeseed, Coconut, Almond, Sesame or Jojoba oil, as it can be potent in its pure form. It can be applied topically when diluted, inhaled through a diffuser, or added to bathwater in a dispersant such as bath foam or bath oil for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Rosemary blends well with Lavender, Lime, Oregano, Thyme, Peppermint and Cinnamon 

Rosemary offers a wide range of benefits for the mind, body, and spirit. From its invigorating scent to its potential therapeutic and culinary applications, this essential oil has stood the test of time as a natural remedy. Whether it is used in aromatherapy, skincare, hair care, or cooking, Rosemary continues to be a popular choice for those seeking natural and holistic solutions to wellbeing.

Cautions : Rosemary essential oil should be used with caution, especially by pregnant women, individuals with high blood pressure, or those prone to seizures. Rosemary may decrease the effects of medications containing oestrogen. It is always recommended to consult a professional aromatherapist before incorporating any new essential oil into your routine.

Natalie Gilding  MIFPA CYT

References 

Quintessence overview on Rosemary Essential Oil Health line.Co.uk The Benefits of Rosemary Essential Oil

The Encyclopaedia of Essential Oils - Julia Lawless

Research article on Rosemary improving long-term memory

http://www.sci-news.com/medicine/article01000.html 

We wanted to build on our previous research that indicated rosemary aroma improved long-term memory and mental arithmetic. In this study we focused on prospective memory, which involves the ability to remember events that will occur in the future and to remember to complete tasks at particular times this is critical for everyday functioning.

“These findings may have implications for treating individuals with memory impairments. It supports our previous research indicating that the aroma of rosemary essential oil can enhance cognitive functioning in healthy adults.”