Essential Oil Spotlight: Rosemary

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) essential oil is steam-distilled from the flowering rosemary plant. It is known for its herbaceous, strong, camphoraceous odor, with woody-balsamic and evergreen undertones. The aroma of rosemary can stimulate memory and open the conscious mind.

Historically, the rosemary plant was regarded as sacred by many civilizations and was used to protect against infectious diseases. Today, rosemary essential oil is most commonly used for addictions (alcohol), arthritis, cancer, cellulite, constipation, diabetes, fainting, flu (influenza), inflammation, lice, low blood pressure, sinusitis, and vaginal infections.

Rosemary affects the immune, respiratory, and nervous systems and contains the following health properties: analgesic, antibacterial, anticancer, anticatarrhal, antifungal, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and expectorant.

Other possible uses of rosemary essential oil include bronchitis, colds, nervous exhaustion, immune system (stimulate), preventing respiratory infections, and stress-related illnesses.

Applications of Rosemary Essential Oil and Safety Data

Topical Application: Rosemary essential oil can be applied neat (with no dilution), or dilute 1:1 (1 drop essential oil to 1 drop carrier oil) for children and those with sensitive skin.
Aromatic Application: Diffuse, or inhale aroma directly. The aroma of rosemary stimulates memory and opens the conscious mind.
Internal Application: Take in capsules, or place 1–2 drops under the tongue. Rosemary can also be used as a flavoring in cooking.
Safety Data: Avoid using rosemary during pregnancy. Not for use by people with epilepsy. Avoid if dealing with high blood pressure. Not to be used internally for children under 6 years old; use with caution and greater dilution for children 6 years old and over.

5 Ways to Use Rosemary Essential Oil

1. Diffuser Blends
With the incredible properties of rosemary essential oil, you can’t resist trying it in this “Study Buddy” diffuser blend to aid you in your studies or whenever you need a mental boost. Also try some of these other blends with rosemary to enhance your life! 

      

2. Roll-ons
Rosemary is extremely valuable when it comes to roll-ons. These great roll-on blends are sure to help with constipation and joint soreness. Just add these oils to a 5 ml roll-on bottle, and fill the remainder of the bottle with fractionated coconut oil or another carrier oil of your choice.

3. Bath
Baths have always been regarded as a simple way to relax, calm nerves, and energize the body. Try some of these easy bath ideas using rosemary essential oil for a nice pick-me-up. Just combine the ingredients, and dissolve 1/2 cup (120 g) of salt mixture under the running tap for a soothing warm bath.

4. Massage
Massage is a great way to use rosemary because of its anti-inflammatory properties and how it affects the nervous system. Try this massage blend for a soothing and stress-relieving massage.

5. Cooking
Rosemary is a popular flavor, and the herb can be easily substituted with essential oil for the same rich flavor. Start by dipping a toothpick in the oil and stirring that into your food, and add more until you achieve the desired flavor. Here are some delicious recipes for you to try using rosemary essential oil:

    

Sources:
Modern Essentials: The Complete Guide to the Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils, 9th Edition, pp. 94–95.
Organic Beauty with Essential Oil by Rebecca Park Totilo