Traditionally, Rosemary essential oil was recognized for its numerous health benefits, stress and pain relief, and ability to serve as a food seasoning.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) hails from the mint family, and it's an aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean region. Its name comes from the Latin words for "dew of the sea".
For centuries, it has been used for food seasoning, beverages, and as a means to improve one's well-being.
Rosemary leaves and Rosemary extract were considered sacred by ancient Greeks. They were used as incense to ward off evil spirits.
In this article, we take a deeper look at the Rosemary essential oil benefits for health.
What Is Rosemary Essential Oil?
Rosemary essential oil is one of the constant oils in aromatherapy, because of its soothing and pain-relieving functions
Unlike other essential oils, Rosemary essential oil isn't a true oil, because of the absence of fat in it.
The medicinal benefits of Rosemary oil are without side effects, so it's a welcome addition in your first aid kits, and even in cosmetics production.
What is the Smell of Rosemary Essential Oil?
Rosemary oil is known for its peculiar herbaceous scent that's impossible to ignore. Most people will describe its fragrance as a woodsy scent, and for this reason, it's a valuable asset in aromatherapy.
The scent has been linked to lowering cortisol levels, improving memory, and by just inhaling rosemary oil, one's mood can improve.
How Is Rosemary Oil Extracted?
At this point, you're probably wondering how to get pure rosemary essential oil. It can be extracted through steam distillation of the Rosemary plant or the cold pressing method.
You can soak the Rosemary extract in a small pot of boiling water and let the mixture sit for a few minutes. Doing this will give you a more diluted version.
How Long Does Rosemary Oil Last?
Rosemary essential oil can last up to six months if stored properly. Ensure that it's kept away from heat and excess light and placed in plastic droppers.
If you store your oil at room temperature, it'll retain all of its properties/nutrients for a long period. Also, it's important to note that, using dark bottles to store essential oils will further protect them from light.
Always ensure that the containers used are food-grade to prevent premature evaporation.
What Are The Health Benefits of Rosemary Oil?
Rosemary essential oil has diverse health benefits. It may be used in treating ailments such as diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, swollen lymph nodes, Raynaud's disease and can even help increase appetite.
Let's get into more details on the specific health benefits.
Improve Brain Function and Memory
Rosemary essential oil can serve as a treatment to improve memory. Most people who inhale Rosemary oil believe in its ability to sharpen focus and increase concentration levels.
Recently, there has been a lot of scientific evidence to support that Rosemary essential oil is beneficial in improving brain function. A study showed that a group of people who inhaled Rosemary essential oil for weeks noticed improved cognitive performance and a significant increase in mental alertness.
To get the mental health benefits of this essential oil, you can apply a few drops of Rosemary oil in small amounts directly to your neck and gently massage the area. Alternatively, you can make use of a diffuser, and you can occasionally inhale it directly from the bottle. It has an energizing aroma, so whenever you need a mental boost or a solution for nervous tension, you can inhale it.
Repel Certain Types of Bugs
Nothing can be more annoying than having your home invaded by bugs and insects. However, the good news is, with Rosemary oil, you can eliminate certain types of bugs away from your home. It has antiseptic properties that help repel insects from your home. With just a few drops in the surrounding air, you are good to go.
Rosemary has a nice aroma, but it also has a pungent scent that keeps bugs away. You can place it around your garden in small bottles or containers close to your plants.
Relieve Pain and Inflammation
One amazing benefit of this oil is its anti-inflammatory properties and pain-relieving properties. For instance, if you are trying to soothe shoulder pain, a sprain, or sore muscles, you can dilute Rosemary oil using a carrier oil, and keep massaging the problem areas.
Scientific evidence has proven that you can use Rosemary oil to treat nociceptive pains (like rheumatoid arthritis), so you might want to try it out. All you have to do is incorporate Rosemary essential oil into your medication regime, although you should get the go-ahead first from your medical practitioner.
Improve Mood
A lot of things in today's world can make you feel unhappy no matter how hard you try not to be. If you ever find yourself in a mood where you feel tired of everything going on around you, Rosemary essential oil might just be what you need.
Scientific references from three researchers from the Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda, have shown that topical application of Rosemary oil can help lower high blood pressure and reduce mental fatigue.
One study showed that applying it in diluted form to the body helps in boosting one's mood. However, more research still has to be carried out in this particular area.
Ease Anxiety
Rosemary oil is used to treat anxiety, either alone or with other essential oils. To achieve a calming effect, get an essential oil diffuser, and mix Lavender essential oil, Rosemary essential oil, Peppermint oil, and citrus oils (any of your choice). Make use of the diffuser to fill your room with this amazing blend. Use the diffuser intermittently so that you don't overwhelm your space. Alternatively, apply a few drops to the side of your ears for an immediate reaction.
Is Rosemary Good for Depression?
Yes, it can be used to treat depression when mixed with other essential oils. Blend it with Lavender and Bergamot oils, and either inhale directly or dispense single droplets into the atmosphere.
Alternatively, you can add a drop or two drops to your favorite massage oil and enjoy an aromatherapy session, or just spread the liquid around your space to create a calming environment.
Relieve Stress
Applying Rosemary oil is a great way to relieve stress levels as it directly impacts the stress hormone cortisol.
Rosemary oil has a subtle way of easing stress when inhaled. High cortisol levels are a result of anxiety or mental tension. If ignored, they can cause weight gain and even heart disease.
Recipe
To make your stress-relieving spray, buy Rosemary oil from any local store, and mix it with vodka and water (8 drops of Rosemary essential oil, 1 tbs of vodka, and 5 tbs of water). Put this concoction in a small spray bottle and spray it into the air. Or dab it onto a small cloth and inhale whenever you want to relax or ease your stress levels.
Anti-inflammatory & Anti-microbial Effects
Research shows that Rosemary oil's chemical composition includes camphor and iron. These have high anti-inflammatory properties, making the oil a good treatment for chronic swelling, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even potential irritation. Stroke survivors can use it to soothe muscle aches caused by spasticity.
Its antimicrobial effects inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
Micro Circulatory Stimulant
Rosemary oil is useful for stimulating the circulation of blood throughout the body. It helps to open up the blood vessels, which naturally affect the appearance of your skin. These tiny blood vessels are located directly under the skin's surface, so applying Rosemary oil will help promote blood circulation in the bloodstream and keep the skin rejuvenated.
Improve Skin
In folk medicine, Rosemary oil has always been used to treat acne when applied topically. It's also used to combat oily skin and is a common ingredient in skincare products. Rosemary's chemical composition contains esters, which help reduce the formation of sebum.
You can rub Rosemary essential oil on your body or dilute it with coconut oil or hemp as it helps prevent potential irritation. It can help combat the adverse effects of the sun and give you a healthy glow.
Is Rosemary Oil Good for Dark Spots?
Yes, Rosemary essential oil has antibiotic properties that help remove blemishes and fade dark spots. To get the best results with Rosemary essential oil, massage your skin using any scrub of your choice to open the pores and allow the oil to be readily absorbed.
Is Rosemary Oil Good for Wrinkles?
Yes, it is known to reduce signs of aging and under-eye redness, making you appear younger and healthier. Its antioxidant properties help prevent wrinkles on the skin by stopping the function of free radicals in the body (breaking skin elasticity).
Does Rosemary Tighten Skin?
Yes, it's already fact-checked that Rosemary essential oil has strong antioxidants and anti-bacterial elements. These help slow the aging process by boosting the skin capillaries and help tighten loose skin, making you look years younger. You should check in with your physician/doctor if you have damaged skin.
Natural Killer of Bad Breath
Traditionally, Rosemary oil has been known for its disinfectant properties, making it effective in combating bad breath. It can also be used orally to prevent tooth decay and strengthen teeth. To make your mouthwash, add a small amount of Rosemary oil into a cup of clean water and use it to rinse your mouth.
Anecdotally Recognized Benefits
Other uses and medicinal benefits of Rosemary essential oil have been observed and mentioned in case study reports, and yes, they aren't evidence-based.
Can You Use Rosemary Oil to Treat Cancer?
Although there hasn't been extensive research that suggests it has healing properties or can cure ailments, it has been used in types of cancer treatment. It can help reduce pain, headaches, and other pain-related symptoms associated with cancer.
Some studies show it can help in preventing breast cancer and colon cancer.
Liver and Digestive System
Inhaling Rosemary oil can improve digestive health and help in detoxifying your liver. You can blend Rosemary oil with a neutral carrier oil to help regulate bile flow and eliminate toxic substances from your body.
Although it can aid healthy digestion, it's a diuretic and not generally safe when ingested by pregnant and nursing women.
Helps Food Poisoning
Rosemary oil can help halt the growth of bacteria that cause food poisoning. But it's advised you consult your physician first to avoid any adverse reaction.
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Ease Antibiotic Side Effects
Rosemary oil has been known to stimulate the effectiveness of antibiotics. If you have drug-resistant symptoms, you can use the oil to combat side effects.
Hair Growth and Maintenance
Rosemary oil mixed with carrier oil can promote hair growth. Remember that the oil comes from an evergreen shrub that, like other members of the mint family, has lots of antioxidants that can aid hair thickness by boosting blood circulation in hair follicles.
Does Rosemary Oil Thicken Hair?
Over the years, Rosemary oil has been used in increasing hair count and hair thickness. Incorporating this essential oil into your hair care regime stimulate the hair tissue, leaving you with healthy-looking hair.
Can Rosemary Essential Oil Treat Hair Loss?
Of course, other essential oils can treat hair loss, but Rosemary oil tops the list. When used consistently for six months, you'll notice significant changes. Add a few drops of Rosemary oil with vitamin E oil, and store it in a spray bottle.
How Should I Apply Rosemary Essential Oil for Hair Loss?
You can perform a scalp massage using Rosemary oil and then rinse it off with shampoo and conditioner. Alternatively, you can add Rosemary essential oil to shampoos, to wash your hair faster.
Can Rosemary Oil Help Alopecia Areata?
Rosemary oil doesn't just help to stimulate hair growth, it can be used in the treatment of alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia (hair loss related to female or male pattern baldness). Combine a few drops of Rosemary oil with jojoba oil and olive oil. Then, gently massage this combination into your scalp, and rinse after five minutes.
Can You Leave Rosemary Oil in Your Hair Overnight?
Yes, you can. But don't apply it in large quantities, as this can cause skin irritation.
How to Use Rosemary Essential Oil?
There are lots of ways to apply Rosemary oil; it all depends on what you are dealing with.
Inhalation
Inhalation is the most common way to use Rosemary oil, especially if you are trying to boost immunity. You can inhale it directly from the bottle, or if you want a more diluted method. apply it on a small cloth and inhale. Doing this a few times a week will boost your immune system and help prevent nasal congestion.
Topical Application
If you are trying to treat eczema or skin-related issues, you can apply a few drops of Rosemary oil to the affected area.
Can You Apply Rosemary Oil Directly to the Scalp?
There are certain sensitive areas of the body where you can't apply pure Rosemary essential oil. However, the scalp isn't one of them. You can apply it directly on your scalp, as it helps in treating dandruff and provides relief from scalp itchiness.
Can We Apply Rosemary Oil Directly On Face?
This essential oil serves as a moisturizer and a layer protecting you from the harmful effects of the sun. However, you need to dilute it with a carrier oil.
Other Applications
Other uses of Rosemary oil don't focus on boosting the immune system or relieving pain.
Odorous
Rosmarinus officinalis has a flower-like scent and is used in air freshers, perfumes, and scented candles.
Cosmetics
Rosemary oil helps combat swelling and redness internally, making it a great option for different cosmetic brands.
Aromatherapy
Rosemary aromatherapy has other benefits aside from its anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It's used to boost mental activity and maintain concentration.
Cooking
You can use Rosemary oil as a seasoning for different foods, including salads. Because of its herbal flavor, you can simply add a teaspoon of Rosemary oil with turmeric when boiling or stuffing meat.
Can You Drink Rosemary Essential Oil?
No, Rosemary oil has a rich flavor but can be toxic when taken orally, so it's advisable to keep it out of the reach of children.
Can I Use Rosemary Essential Oil Every Day?
It depends on what you are treating, as there are risks with overuse. However, if you must, ensure you blend it with a carrier oil. The essence of this is to reduce its harshness on your skin.
Does Rosemary Oil Have Side Effects?
People react differently to things - the same goes for essential oils. Do more research or consult your doctor before adding it to your regime.
Can Rosemary Oil Be Toxic?
Taking undiluted Rosemary oil is unsafe as it can cause respiratory problems, indigestion, and vomiting.
Does Rosemary Oil Interact with Any Drug/Medication?
Rosemary could interact negatively with blood-thinning drugs. Also, if you are on diuretics you shouldn't use Rosemary oil because you're putting your life at risk.
Is Rosemary Oil Safe For Pregnant Women?
Rosemary oil isn't safe during pregnancy, so it's best to avoid it. Certain studies suggest that it can even lead to miscarriage because it's a high uterine stimulant.
Also, breastfeeding mothers should take this oil in moderation to avoid causing a dip in milk supply.
Does Rosemary Oil Raise Blood Pressure?
Research shows that those suffering from low blood pressure may see an increase, but the pressure returns to normal after the Rosemary treatment.
What Are the Substitutes for Rosemary Oil?
There is no manual responsible for dictating how we react to herbs. What works for someone may not have the intended effect on you, so you may need to test out other oils.
If Rosemary essential oil doesn't work for you, you can use black pepper for a mental boost. It can be used to improve your overall mental alertness.
Also, you can easily substitute Jasmine oil for Rosemary essential oil in your aromatherapy session.
Conclusion
In today's world, herbs can have a more positive impact on some people's lives than pharmaceuticals. People trust natural remedies more, as they bring a warming calmness due to their effectiveness.
Rosemary oil and its invigorating nature are ideal for a nice warm bath. However, you shouldn't use it with children younger than age five.
Sources
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5. Aleksandar Rašković, Isidora Milanović, Nebojša Pavlović, Tatjana Ćebović, Saša Vukmirović, Momir Mikov(2014). Antioxidant activity of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil and its hepatoprotective potential. DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-14-225.
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