Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosmarinus officinalis

Known Uses

Rosemary Essential Oil is known to stimulate hair growth when applied to the scalp, can prevent baldness, slow graying, and can treat dandruff and dry scalp. It is used to alleviate gastrointestinal complaints, to detoxify the liver and improve gallbladder function. Combined with lavender oil in aromatherapy, it reduces cortisol levels, protecting the body from oxidative stress. It is said to restore mental alertness, aid in digestion, and relieve muscle aches and pains.

Rosemary Essential Oil has a high antioxidant value making it a powerful agent to fight free radicals. The natural chemical in rosemary that is responsible for this is carnosol, which is known for its anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. According to researchers, “It has a selective toxicity towards cancer cells ….” In other words, carnosol acts to only destroy cancer cells and doesn’t damage neighboring cells like chemotherapy, which kills everything in the targeted area.

The memory enhancement ability of Rosemary Essential Oil has been known for thousands of years; it helps people become more alert and is being studied as a treatment and preventative of Alzheimer’s disease. Its stimulating effects provide energy to start the day or keep going late into the night.

History

Originating from the Mediterranean region, Rosemary has been used in medicinal preparations since ancient times. It was regarded as a sacred plant in many cultures. Ancient Greek scholars wore a wreath of rosemary around their heads during exams to impart clarity and enhance memory. The ancient Egyptians would honor loved ones by leaving a sprig of rosemary on their coffins.

Warnings

Rosemary Essential Oil is safe for most people when used as a medicine when taken by mouth, applied to the skin, or inhaled as aromatherapy. However, in some individuals, the undiluted oil can be unsafe to take by mouth. Taking large amounts of rosemary can cause vomiting, uterine bleeding, kidney irritation, increased sun sensitivity, skin redness, and allergic reactions.

Pregnant or Breast Feeding

Rosemary might stimulate menstruation or affect the uterus, causing a miscarriage. Not enough is known about the safety of applying rosemary to the skin during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, it’s best to avoid rosemary essential oil. If you are breast-feeding, also avoid rosemary in medicinal amounts as not enough is known about the effects on the nursing infant.

Aspirin

Rosemary contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical, known as salicylate, may cause a reaction in people who are allergic to aspirin.

Bleeding Disorders

Rosemary might increase the risk of bleeding and bruising in people with bleeding disorders.

Seizure Disorders

Rosemary might make seizure disorders worse. Don’t use it.