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ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL BENEFITS

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ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL BENEFITS.

Rosemary is one of the most versatile herbs around. People have used it throughout history, as far back as the ancient Greeks. 

It has a wide range of uses and benefits, making the oil extracted from the plant very popular among essential oil users.

In this post you will learn:

  • WHAT IS ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL?
  • ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL BENEFITS
  • WHAT PROPERTIES DOES ROSEMARY HAVE?
  • HOW DO YOU USE ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL?
  • WHAT TO DIFFUSE WITH ROSEMARY?
  • essential oil roller bottles recipes WITH ROSEMARY OIL
ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL BENEFITS. How to use rosemary oil for health and beauty. Plus FREE ROLLER RECIPES PRINTABLE!

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I love Rosemary essential oil. It is one of the oils I use the most.

As a matter of fact, I use it daily. It is such a versatile oil that you can use it nearly in all aspects of your daily life, from cooking to laundry, from diffusing it to applying it on your scalp to promote hair growth.

In this blog post, I’ll tell you all you need to know about this amazing essential oil, so you can start incorporating it in your every day life too.

WHAT IS ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL?

The rosemary plant, also known as Rosmarinus officinalis, is an evergreen shrub, extremely common around the world. The name comes from the Latin “ros” meaning “dew” and “marinus” meaning “sea,” translating to “dew of the sea.”

It has needle-like leaves, and white, pink, blue or purple flowers.

The rosemary bush has a very distinct aroma. As a result, it is an extremely  versatile plant to use particularly in the kitchen, to season and add flavour to food.

Rosemary is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), the same one as sage, lavender and basil.

WHAT DOES ROSEMARY OIL CONTAIN?

According to sciencedirect.com: “Rosemary contains a variety of volatile essential oils, including monoterpene hydrocarbons, camphene, limonene, camphor, borneol, cineole, linalool, and verbinol.22. The plant also contains a variety of flavonoids, diterpenes, polyphenols, and high levels of salicylates”.

The reason why rosemary essential oil has so many different properties and benefits is because of the different phytochemicals it contains. For example, Rosemary contains carnosic acid, ursolic acid, and rosmarinic acid.

Let’s go through some of them.

ROSMARINIC ACID

Rosmarinic acid may provide anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, and may protect against some forms of cancers.

α -Pinene

α -Pinene may have anti-inflammatory, anti-septic, expectorant and bronchodilator properties.

Camphor 

Camphor is known as a cough suppressant, decongestant, a febrifuge (a medicine used to reduce fever), an anesthetic, an antimicrobial and an anti-inflammatory.

1,8-Cineol 

1,8-Cineol is an analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, anti-viral, and a cough suppressant.

Camphene

Camphene can be used as an anti-oxidant, and anti – inflammatory.

Limonene 

Limonene is known as a nervous system stimulant and an appetite-suppressant. It is also useful for its mood balancing and detoxifying properties.

Linalool

Linalool may have sedative, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety and analgesic properties. 

WHAT PROPERTIES DOES ROSEMARY HAVE?

As a result of its chemical composition, rosemary essential oil is well known for its many properties.

Although its use in cooking is likely the most recognised, rosemary oil has many health and beauty benefits too.

To name a few, rosemary oil can help with:

  • Improving brain function (mental alertness and mental clarity);
  • Reducing pain and inflammation;
  • Freshen up the air;
  • Hair growth;
  • Reducing stress levels;
  • Improving memory, concentration and overall cognitive performance;
  • Fighting colds and flu;
  • Improving blood circulation;
  • Repelling bugs in summer;
  • And many more.

rosemary essential oil benefits

Let’s go through some of the most important benefits of rosemary oil.

rosemary essential oil benefits FOR HAIR 

Rosemary essential oil benefits for hair care are widely known.

Can rosemary oil treat hair loss? Indeed the topical use of rosemary oil can help support a healthy growth, especially if you are suffering from hair loss due to health problems such as alopecia.

Rosemary oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can also improve circulation. These properties are linked to hair growth support because Rosemary could prevent hair follicles from being starved of blood supply, dying off, and leading to hair loss.

You could also use this essential oil to fight a dry and itchy scalp and dandruff.

alopecia

One of the most common types of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia. Despite its name, this condition can affect both men and women.

Alopecia manifests in different ways. For example, with a receding hairline,  bold patches on the head, and thinning hair.

It is believed that rosemary oil can help with androgenetic alopecia by preventing a byproduct of testosterone from attacking your hair follicles, which is the cause of this condition. 

Alopecia areata is a different form of alopecia. It manifests itself causing hair loss in circular patches around the head and elsewhere on the body.

Rosemary essential oil has been used successfully to support a healthy hair regrowth. 

How Should I Apply Rosemary Essential Oil for Hair Loss?

The best way you could treat hair loss with rosemary essential oil, is to perform scalp massage on a regular basis. Take a couple of drops on your hands and massage your head thoroughly.

MAKE A DIY HAIR MASK

If you prefer, you could make a DIY hair mask by placing a few drops of rosemary oil in a jar of coconut oil. Massage your head with this mask and leave overnight. The following morning, wash your hair as per normal.

Other essential oils that you could add to this homemade hair mask are thyme, peppermint, frankincense, cedarwood and lavender oil.

ADD ROSEMARY TO YOUR SHAMPOO OR CONDITIONER

Next time you open a new bottle of shampoo or conditioner, just add a couple of drops of rosemary oil to them and use as per normal.

You could use rosemary even in your homemade hair products.


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COMPLETE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO ESSENTIAL OILS

Did you know that I have many many DIY recipes for your hair and beauty in my “Complete Beginners Guide to Essential Oils?”

You can find all the best homemade recipes with essential oils in my Ebook.

Most importantly, this guide has all the education you need in order to start using essential oils today.

Make sure you go grab it now!

beginners guide to essential oils

GET THE COMPLETE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO ESSENTIAL OILS!

Are you curious about what Essential Oils are, and what they can do for you and your family?

Did you know that EO have been used for centuries to help support our health and wellbeing?

If you want to learn more, I have created the perfect complete guide to beginners EO users. You can get it on my Etsy shop at a special introductory price.



ROSEMARY OIL TO IMPROVE BRAIN FUNCTION

According to healthline.com: “Research indicates that inhaling rosemary oil helps prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical important for thinking, concentration and memory ”.

This topic needs further research. However, Rosemary maybe support patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

ROSEMARY OIL TO IMPROVE MEMORY

This benefit is closely tied to the support that rosemary oil provides for brain function.

Diffusing rosemary can in fact help improving memory.

ROSEMARY OIL TO RELIEVE STRESS. IS ROSEMARY OIL GOOD FOR ANXIETY?

Several studies have shown that the aroma of rosemary oil can be a powerful stress fighter. 

On those days when you are facing issues at work, or you are studying for upcoming school exams, you could just plug in your diffuser, add a few drops of rosemary and enjoy its stress relieving properties.

Pairing this oil with lavender or wild orange is very beneficial to combat stress.

ROSEMARY OIL TO RELIEVE PAIN

You could use rosemary oil for both pain relief and to reduce joint inflammation.

For this purpose you will need to apply it topically with the help of a carrier oil.

I have a post dedicated entirely to carrier oils. Here you can find all the info you need in order to choose the best one to suit your specific needs.

ROSEMARY OIL TO REDUCE INFLAMMATION

Rosemary is a powerful anti-inflammatory. 

This essential oil may help reduce tissue inflammation that can lead to swelling, pain and stiffness. Therefore, you could use it to relieve pain from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

ROSEMARY OIL TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

Rosemary may help in boosting your immune system. For example, it could help with fighting off colds and flu.

The chemical composition of this oil, provides it with natural anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Furthermore, it can also provide decongestant benefits, particularly useful if your need support for your respiratory system (for example to relieve nasal congestion).

ROSEMARY OIL TO INCREASE BLOOD CIRCULATION. HOW DO YOU USE ROSEMARY OIL FOR CIRCULATION?

Rosemary oil may help to promote the flow of blood through the body’s smallest blood vessels. This, in turn, will help to increase blood circulation all over your body.

Applying rosemary oil topically, might be particularly useful if you suffer from cold fingers and toes. Add the rosemary oil to a carrier oil (best in a roller bottle), and massage into the spots that are experiencing any coldness or numbness.

ROSEMARY OIL AS A BUG REPELLENT

During the summer months, diffusing rosemary oil may help in repelling those annoying bugs. In fact, rosemary can help with keeping mosquitos and many other insects (such as moths and flies) away.

You could easily and cost effectively create a natural alternative to chemical-based products. Just add a few drops of rosemary to your diffuser. Alternatively, you could make a room spray with it.

For this purpose, rosemary oil works very well when paired with thyme, eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.


If you want some help to fight bugs and mosquitos this summer, you can read this post:

ROSEMARY OIL TO FRESHEN UP THE AIR. DOES ROSEMARY OIL PURIFY THE AIR?

You could use this oil to freshen up your home or work environment.

Just add a few drops to your diffuser or to a cup full of baking soda to instantly lift up the air.

ROSEMARY OIL TO BOOST YOUR LAUNDRY PRODUCTS

You can easily add a drop or two of rosemary oil to your fabric conditioner or to your laundry soap.

In addition to that, you could also make your own DIY scent booster by mixing a few simple ingredients.

Find all of the above recipes and more in my guide!

 

beginners guide to essential oils

GET THE COMPLETE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO ESSENTIAL OILS!

Are you curious about what Essential Oils are, and what they can do for you and your family?

Did you know that EO have been used for centuries to help support our health and wellbeing?

If you want to learn more, I have created the perfect complete guide to beginners EO users. You can get it on my Etsy shop at a special introductory price.



ROSEMARY OIL TO REINVIGORATE YOU

Rosemary oil may help boosting your attention, alertness, energy and overall mood. Place a few drops in your diffuser along with other oils such as wild orange, lavender, peppermint or any citrus oil.

ROSEMARY OIL TO HELP WITH THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

Rosemary oil can support your digestive system in many ways.

It works very well to improve liver function, increase appetite and help with stomach issues like stomach cramps, indigestion and food poisoning.

rosemary essential oil benefits FOR SKIN

Rosemary oil is widely used in the cosmetic industry. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it can help address many skin issues such as puffiness, redness, skin irritation and swelling.

Furthermore, rosemary oil can help with skin elasticity and general skin health, due to its abilities to improve blood circulation.

Other Uses of rosemary essential oil

Potentially, rosemary oil has benefits to treat very serious conditions.

For example, it could help to treat some forms of cancer.

Some studies have shown that it could also help to fight drug-resistant strains of certain pathogens, including E.coli.

Rosemary might also help with dementia.

Unfortunately, more extensive research is needed in order to say that with any amount of certainty.

HOW DO YOU USE ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL?

Rosemary is such a versatile oil that you can use it in a number of different ways. Depending on the condition you are trying to address, you might choose one method over another. Your own personal preferences will also play an important role.

I’m going to walk you through the three different types of use: 

  • aromatically, 
  • topically, 
  • internally.

If you need a little help to get started on using essential oils, you can read this post:


AROMATICALLY: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SMELLING ROSEMARY? 

Perhaps the most common way of using essential oils, is to smell them.

Aromatherapy has been used successfully for hundreds of years. Just open a bottle of your favourite oil and inhale directly, or put a few drops in a diffuser to enjoy the benefits of plant power. Alternatively, you could place a drop of oil on the palm of your hand, cup your hands together and inhale by placing your hands close to your face (making sure to cover your nose and mouth with them).

WHAT IS ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL GOOD FOR IN A DIFFUSER?

It is certainly more practical to put an oil in a diffuser rather than smelling it from a bottle. Therefore, I’d recommend you use a diffuser if you want to use any oil aromatically.

Rosemary is very beneficial when used aromatically. In particular, it is advised to use it this way in order to boost your immune system, your mood and your brain functions.

WHAT DIFFUSES WELL WITH ROSEMARY? 

If you are wondering what to diffuse with rosemary oil, there are many oil that complement it.

Naturally, it will also depend of what effect your are trying to achieve. For example, if you want to help with memory and brain function, peppermint, frankincense or basil oil are a very good option. Alternatively, to boost your mood, you could pair it with any citrus oil, such as bergamot, lemon or wild orange.

rosemary essential oil diffuser blends

You can find ideas for your diffuser by checking this post from “lovingessentialoils.com

TOPICALLY: HOW DO YOU USE ROSEMARY TOPICALLY?

If you want to use any oil topically, it means you will be applying them on your skin.

Topical use is indeed very effective. The oils get quickly absorbed into your skin and are then released in the bloodstream. From here, they will travel fast to support every cell of your body.

Read this post to learn how fast essential oils work on your entire body!


Topical use is very effective cause you can apply oils specifically on an affected area. For example, if you have a skin issue like eczema, you could make up a blend and massage it directly on the area of your skin that needs support.

CAN ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL BE APPLIED DIRECTLY TO SKIN?

Rosemary is a very strong oil, and just a little bit will go a long way.

However, because it is so powerful, it is recommended you use it only after diluting it with a carrier oil. Fractionated coconut oil  or jojoba oil are very good options.

Proper dilution will ensure you avoid skin irritations or allergic reactions. Furthermore, it improves blood flow and absorption. Lastly, it will make a few drops of oil go a long way!

After you have properly diluted your oil, you can apply the blend to the bottom of your feet, or directly on the affected area. Massage thoroughly till all the blend has been absorbed.

IMPORTANT

Never apply oils on damaged skin, sensible areas or near your eyes.

An undiluted essential oil may have contraindications for people with sensitive skin or elderly people. Always keep away form reach of children.

ESSENTIAL OILS DILUTION CHART

YOU CAN GET MY FREE PRINTABLE with a safe dilution chart for essential oils here:

FREE DILUTION CHART FOR BEGINNERS ESSENTIAL OILS USERS.


essential oil roller bottles recipes WITH ROSEMARY OIL

Here’s some of my favourite roller bottles recipes with rosemary oil.

In order to make any of them, you will need a 10ml roller bottle. Firstly, add the exact amount of essential oils drops recommended in the recipe. Secondly, top with fractionated coconut oil. Thirdly, replace the roller top and cap and shake well.

To use, simply roll on the skin and massage till the oils are fully absorbed.

Store the roller bottles in a cool and dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Discard after 6 months max.

The following recipes are for adults only.

WAKE UP CALL

  • 2 drops black pepper
  • 5 drops bergamot
  • 3 drops rosemary
  • 2 drops eucalyptus
  • 3 drops juniper berry

Immune BOOSTER

  • 1 drop cinnamon bark
  • 3 drops rosemary
  • 1 drop clove 
  • 3 drops eucalyptus
  • 6 drops wild orange

Immune sUPPORT

  • 2 drops rosemary
  • 4 drops lemon
  • 2 drops eucalyptus
  • 3 drops frankincense
  • 4 drops wild orange

EASY Breathe

  • 4 drops rosemary
  • 3 drops eucalyptus
  • 2 drops peppermint
  • 4 drops lemon

Aches and Pains

  • 1 drop marjoram
  • 5 drops lavender
  • 4 drops rosemary
  • 1 drop lemongrass
  • 4 drops clary sage
  • 1 drop frankincense

my head is sore

  • 2 drops eucalyptus
  • 1 drop frankincense
  • 2 drops rosemary
  • 4 drops lavender
  • 1 drop peppermint
  • 3 drops basil
  • 2 drops marjoram

self love

  • 3 drops patchouli
  • 4 drops bergamot
  • 1 drop clary sage
  • 3 drops rosemary
  • 4 drops lavender

focus booster

  • 5 drops basil
  • 5 drops rosemary
  • 6 drops cypress
  • 2 drops peppermint

I’m so tired!

  • 2 drops rosemary
  • 4 drops bergamot
  • 2 drops basil
  • 2 drops peppermint 
  • 1 drop frankincense

AS HAPPY AS CAN BE

  • 4 drops rosemary
  • 4 drops grapefruit
  • 3 drops lime
  • 2 drops bergamot

FRESH AND CLEAN

  • 4 drops rosemary
  • 3 drops lavender
  • 2 drops eucalyptus
  • 1 drop tea tree
  • 1 drop spearmint

spice up your life

  • 4 drops rosemary
  • 1 drop black pepper
  • 2 drops wild orange
  • 1 drop clove

GET THE FREE PRINTABLE WITH ALL THE ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL ROLLER RECIPES

.

INTERNALLY: CAN YOU INGEST ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL?

People have been using the plant of rosemary oil in cooking for centuries. Indeed I use it very often, as it adds such a pleasant and distinct flavour to many dishes and foods such as potatoes and chicken.

Although the use of the plant in cooking is quite common, that is not the case for the oil extracted from it.

It is safe to ingest rosemary oil. Indeed, ingesting it can be very helpful in supporting your digestive system. However, you can only consume very very small quantities daily. Moreover, you should not use it unless you place it in a veggie cap first.

I would not recommend to ingest more than 1 or 2 drop a day in total.

Overuse of rosemary essential oil internally can cause damage to internal organs, including stomach and kidneys.

Does Rosemary Oil Have Side Effects?

Like with any product, natural or not, there can be possible side effects.

As already mentioned, rosemary oil is very powerful, so only a very small amount should be consumed daily if ingested.

Topical and aromatic use of this oil are more forgiving, so you can safely use it throughout the day if diffused or applied on your skin (always follow proper dilution!).

For the best medical advice on how to safely use rosemary oil, you could check this post from WEBMD.COM.

Does rosemary oil interact with medications?

You should avoid the use of rosemary oil if you are already using:

  • Anticoagulant drugs or ACE inhibitors;
  • Diuretics;  
  • Drugs to manage high blood pressure;
  • Blood thinners like aspirin;
  • Lithium for depression.

Always talk to a trusted medical practitioner before using any essential oil or any other natural product!

Is rosemary oil safe for pregnancy?

Essential oils are a natural product. However, that doesn’t mean they are 100% safe to use at all times.

You should avoid some oils if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Rosemary oil cannot safely be used in pregnancy or while nursing a baby.

Is rosemary oil safe for epilepsy?

You need to avoid rosemary oil if you suffer from epilepsy.

For your information, there are a few essential oils you need to avoid if you suffer from the condition. To name a few, rosemary, fennel, sage, eucalyptus, tansy.

This means that you should avoid also the blends that contain those oils, such as Doterra On Guard and Doterra Adaptiv to name just a couple.

ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL BENEFITS. How to use rosemary oil for health and beauty. Plus FREE ROLLER RECIPES PRINTABLE!

ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL BENEFITS: CONCLUSIONS

Rosemary is a fantastic oil to have in your collection. You can use it for so many reasons, due to the large amount of benefits it provides.

Please leave a comment below to let me know if you already use rosemary in your home, or if you have a special recipe you would like to share.

I hope you find this post helpful.

Till next time, Dee.

IMPORTANT: when using Essential Oils, make sure to use only CPTG Certified, Pure, Tested Grade ones, like Doterra Essential Oils. The content of this blog post and any information provided here has not been evaluated by any government entity or medical practitioner. It is NOT intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, illness or condition. It is NOT intended to be a substitute for medical counselling. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from any medical condition or illness or injury, you SHOULD consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any product.

Hi, I’m Dee!

Mom of three; printables creator, natural solutions, simple living and homemade food enthusiast; “Outlander” fanatic.

When I’m not busy writing and designing, you can always find me covered in a cloud of flour in the kitchen, playing and crafting with my children, or making up some blends with my Essential Oils. Also I’m practically obsessed with Crystals and reading during my spare time.

Come along on our crazy journey as a family living in the countryside of Ireland!

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