The herb, Rosemary has an ancient history with the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans, considered sacred, it was used to cleanse and prevent the spread of illnesses.
As early as 1500’s, rosemary was used as the symbol of remembrance, such as in funerals and weddings, even then it was used as a powerful all natural health booster.
Rosemary is actually a member of the mint family, its Latin name, Rosmarinus officinalis, is very popular as a culinary herb. The name comes from “ros” (dew) and “marinus” (the sea), or “dew of the sea
Key Benefits of Rosemary Essential Oil
- Relieves muscle aches and pain.
- Improve alertness and memory
- Used for indigestion, flatulence, constipation, bloating
- Helps detoxify the liver and release bile
- Stimulates blood circulation
- Helpful aid in digestion of meats
- Smelling Rosemary oil can decrease the stress hormone, cortisol. Excess cortisol can affect weight gain, blood pressure and heart disease.
- If you are feeling a little overwhelmed, confused or anxious, the aroma of rosemary will help clear them up.
- Rosemary is one of the best essential oils to help cleanse and stimulate the lymph system by massaging near lymph glands. This is a good boost for the immune system.
- Rosemary is a natural insect repellant, air freshener and cleaning spray.
- Rosemary helps with hair growth and circulation of scalp, decreasing hair loss.
Studies of Rosemary Oil
- In 2013, a study published in Scientia Pharmaeutica, showed the effects on the nervous system after inhaling Rosemary oil. They concluded that the brain responded by positive mood changes, more activity and less drowsiness.
- A study done at Newcastle in Northumbria, in the UK, they used Rosemary oil diffused in a room with subjects, testing later found that their memory of things they saw in the room was remarkable. This could be beneficial for both dementia and Alzheimer’s patients.
There have been other studies, both evidence based and folk stories about rosemary. In general it is found that inhaling the aroma of Rosemary or any essential oil, goes up the nose registering in the brain immediately.
The response to the oils aroma in the brain acts like a neurotransmitter, gets transferred to the blood and the body responds appropriately.
Using Rosemary Essential Oil
- Use a diffuser, inhaling rosemary oil is good for any problem, especially for brain, weight control and moods.
- Mix rosemary oil with a carrier oil and rub or massage into joints for pain, on neck for memory, or on liver and gallbladder area to help detoxify.
- Blend a few drops of rosemary oil in with your shampoo bottle to help hair stimulation.
- Add a drop to the palm of your hand and rub vigorously to warm it and then cup over nose inhale deeply to help alertness and aid respiratory issues.
It is not recommended to use Rosemary oil if pregnant or breastfeeding. Some may have an allergic type reaction.
Do not ingest rosemary oil by mouth, it is very strong and can cause vomiting.
References:
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-rosemary-oil.html
http://www.naturallivingideas.com/rosemary-essential-oil-benefits-uses/
http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/rosemary-oil.aspx
http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-33519453
https://draxe.com/rosemary-oil-uses-benefits/
Cindy Burrows, B.S., M.T., Herbalist, is a Natural Health Consultant helping individuals start health programs to improve their life, wellness and happiness. Cindy is a speaker, writer and entrepreneur of several businesses.