Rosemary has been a tasty and aromatic addition to many dishes for years. But is it more than just a fragrant addition to your favorite meal? When it is used to make Rosemary Oil it is. This potent essential oil has a variety of health benefits for your hair, skin, and insides. This oil even helps your brain function better when used properly. If the benefits of rosemary oil are something you’ve been wondering about, read on!

What is Rosemary Oil

Rosemary gets its name from two Latin words, ros, which means dew, and marinus, which means sea. This translates into dew of the Sea. This fragrant herb is native to the Mediterranean region. It can also be found in Mexico, the USA, England, and Morocco. It has a distinct aroma with hints of citrus and evergreen. Rosmarinus Officinalis, as it is formally known, belongs to the mint family. This includes other herbs such as sage, lavender, and basil. Rosemary even looks like lavender, with its flat needles lightly traced with silver. Rosemary essential oil is made using these needles. It creates an aromatic oil that has seemingly endless uses.

The History of Rosemary Oil

Rosemary has been used throughout history for a variety of purposes. The ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, and Hebrews all considered this herb sacred. The Greeks wore garlands of rosemary on their heads during their studies. This was because they believed it improved their memory. They and the Romans also used this herb during religious ceremonies and festivals. At these times the plant reminded them of life and death. 

Both the leaves and the oil were used in the Mediterranean for meal preparations. In Egypt, the plants and oils were used as incense during aromatherapy. Later, during the Middle Ages, rosemary took on a new role. The people of this time thought the plant could ward off evil spirits. They also believed it could keep the bubonic plague at bay. To fight off this disease, Rosemary branches were placed in doorways and laid out on the floors. Even grave robbers found a use for rosemary essential oils. They would create a concoction of herbs and spices to protect themselves from the plague. They called this mixture “Four Thieves Vinegar.”

Because of its healthy properties. Rosemary has also been used in cosmetics and medical care. The German-Swiss physician, botanist, and philosopher, Paracelsus, favored rosemary. He promoted the healing properties, using it as an alternative herbal medicine. This was in the 16th century before people were fully aware of the harm germs could cause. The people of this time used rosemary in massage balms and oils. This helped to eliminate bacteria that could be spread from person to person. They also used it as incense for similar reasons. Today, rosemary oil is still used for its healing benefits and aromatic scent.

Benefits of Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil has numerous health benefits that help treat a variety of issues you may be facing. It is a potent antioxidant, thanks to its main constituents. These include carnosol, carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, and ursolic acid. Together, these fight off the free radicals that could cause serious health issues. But rosemary oil also has antimicrobial properties. This helps it fight off dangerous bacteria and infections. Studies have also found many more health and therapeutic benefits. It is an anti-inflammatory and an antinociceptive. This reduces swelling and pain. Rosemary oil is an antidepressant and a cognition enhancer. This boosts mood and memory. There is also evidence that this oil is a DNA-protective with some anticancer effects.

Uses of Rosemary Oil

#1 – Hair Loss: 

Some of the properties found in rosemary oil are essential to treat and prevent hair loss. Rosemary oil is an anti-inflammatory, promotes nerve growth, and improves circulation. All of these properties can work together to help stimulate hair growth. One of the active ingredients found in this plant, Carnosic acid, can heal tissue and nerve damage. This works in the scalp to restore your hair growth.

There was also a study that compared the results of rosemary oil and minoxidil. Both of these products were used on people suffering from androgenetic alopecia. The results were that those who used the rosemary oil had the same hair growth as those who used the minoxidil. Those who used the rosemary oil also had less itching in their scalp as a side effect. Using rosemary oil for hair loss is quite easy to do, with a few methods to choose from. You can massage it directly into your scalp after bathing. For this, you can use it on its own or mix it with your favorite carrier oil. You can also add 5 drops of rosemary essential oil to your shampoo or conditioner.

#2 – Dandruff:

Rosemary oil can be quite beneficial to those with dandruff. This is because rosemary oil has anti-fungal properties. This helps soothe the skin, reducing the dryness and flaking that causes so much of the issue. Rosemary oil nourishes the scalp, softening it for relief from itching as well. To keep dandruff at bay, it is best to use rosemary oil regularly. This will keep your scalp healthy and free of the flakes that can cause such embarrassment. But you need to be careful how you use it.

Some people recommend massaging the oil into your scalp to clear away dandruff. But this could cause irritation in some people. In these cases, the flaking could actually increase. For a safer and healthier treatment, you should mix it with tea tree oil and basil oil. Combine a few drops of each, then rub it into your clean scalp. You can also add rosemary oil to your shampoo and use it every day to help decrease your dandruff issues. Massage it in well, letting the rosemary oil soak into your skin. Then rinse it out as you normally would. You may not see immediate results, but give it time to work.

#3 – Acne and Oily Skin:

Those with oily skin have to deal with that greasy shine all day long. Runny makeup, blotting papers, and an array of skin care products are their life. Acne is also a huge part of oily skin, because the enlarged pores trap more dirt and bacteria than other skin types. Because rosemary oil has antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities, it treats these issues. It can help balance out your oily skin. It can also help treat your acne, cleansing out the pores. The anti-inflammatory properties reduce the swelling as well for less painful blemishes. And unlike your usual cleansers, it won’t dry out your skin. Instead, it will tone it, giving it a healthy glow.

To use rosemary oil for your skin, you can blend it with castor oil, or any of your favorite carrier oils. Massage it into your skin, letting it soak into your pores. This will give it a chance to work its anti-bacterial magic. Then wash it away using a warm, soft washcloth. Your skin should feel soft and smooth. Within a few days, you should see a decrease in acne and oily skin.

#4 – Skin Rejuvenation:

As a powerful antioxidant, rosemary oil is good for rejuvenating your skin. It rehydrates your skin, reducing the flaky appearance that comes with dryness. This oil also tones your skin for an even, healthier look. The antioxidants also slow the signs of aging. It regenerates cells and stimulates biological activity. This reduces fine lines and wrinkles for smoother skin. Rosemary oil also increases elasticity, so loose, sagging skin also won’t show your age. You’ll look years younger with regular use of this oil.

Even scars and dark spots will be treated for a great looking complexion. This oil even benefits those with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. The anti-inflammatory properties can reduce the swelling and irritation. You can massage a few drops of rosemary oil into your skin on its own, or mixed with the carrier oil of your choice. You can also add a few drops to your regular moisturizers and creams. As you apply them to your face, the rosemary oil will work its way into your skin. It will continue to work as you go about your day or while you sleep at night.

#5 – Stress: 

Cortisol is one of the hormones our bodies release during our fight or flight response to stress. If we have chronic stress, this can lead to excess cortisol levels in our blood. This causes a variety of issues in our bodies. Our metabolism is affected, which can lead to weight gain. High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can also be the result. Excess cortisol can even lead to heart disease. Thankfully, using rosemary oil can help to decrease the cortisol levels in the saliva. This helps lessen the stress you’re feeling. When this happens, the unhealthy side effects will also be reduced.

To use rosemary oil to relieve stress, you’ll need an essential oil diffuser. These are usually decently priced, so you won’t have to spend a fortune on your mental health. Turn it on and add a few drops of the rosemary essential oil. Then sit back and inhale the woody scent for at least 5 minutes. This will significantly reduce the cortisol levels in your saliva. Your stress will lessen, as will the negative effects it has on your body. For the best results, combine lavender and rosemary essential oils in the diffuser.

#6 – Cognitive Function: 

Rosemary oil has amazing health benefits when it comes to brain power. There was a reason the ancient Greeks wore those rosemary garlands while studying. Rosemary improves memory, allowing you to retain what you’re reading. It also helps you focus and concentrate, which is good for those who are easily distracted. But this oil takes it a bit further. It helps enhance your mood as well. This reduces anxiety, tension, fatigue, and depression. When you need to be awake and aware, it helps stimulate your mind and improve your productivity. But when your exams or big work projects are complete, it also helps your mind rest.

There is one more important benefit of rosemary oil when it comes to the mind. Studies found it can improve the cognitive function in those suffering from Alzheimer’s. By boosting the neural activity, this oil can actually slow the onset of this disease. This allows patients to retain their memories much longer than they normally would. The best way to use rosemary oil for cognitive functions is with aromatherapy. Inhaling the oil in a diffuser works quite well. Some students also carried sachets of rosemary and lavender oils during their tests.

#7 – Immune System:

Antioxidants are the most important weapon our bodies have to stay healthy. They fight off diseases and infection, as well as environmental damage. The use of rosemary oil shows an increase in free radical scavenging activity. These antioxidant compounds include caffeic acid, carnosol, rosmarinic acid, and betulic acid. But rosemary oil also contains a few other active components to help your immune system. This oil is an anti-inflammatory and an anti-carcinogenic. Together, these properties work together to strengthen your immune system.

They help protect against minor issues like cold and flu germs. They also work together to fight off more harmful diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. In fact, any illness associated with free radicals can be combated with rosemary oil. For the most beneficial use, it is best to combine aromatherapy and massage. Use a diffuser to release the rosemary oil’s healthy aroma into the air and breathe it in deeply. For a massage, combine rosemary oil with your favorite carrier oil. Then massage it into your arms, moving upwards to the lymph nodes in the armpit area. Do the same over your chest and down your neck. Don’t forget your legs, working your way up from feet to groin.

#8 – Respiratory Problems:

If you have congestion in your throat or chest, you’ve likely used VapoRub to loosen it up and breathe again. Despite how well this stuff works, it is greasy on your skin and smells awful. Rosemary oil is a great natural alternative to this stinky treatment. It has a much better scent for starters. But this aroma does more than smell nice. It helps to relieve throat congestion. This oil’s scent can also be used to treat other issues as well. It works on sore throats, eliminating the need for chemical syrups. It also helps clear up cold and flu symptoms as well as respiratory allergies.

Rosemary oil is also an antiseptic. This makes it an effective treatment for respiratory infections. To make it even better, rosemary oil is also an antispasmodic. For this reason, it is also great for treating bronchial asthma. There’s one easy way to use rosemary oil to help reduce the symptoms of all of these issues. All you need to do is take a couple drops of the oil onto your finger. Then massage it into your chest and throat. Repeat this process every few hours until the congestion is gone.

#9 – Pain Relief:

There are a few different reasons why rosemary oil can relieve pain. It is an analgesic substance. This makes it a great treatment for headaches and migraines. You can also massage it into the temples to help with these issues. Rosemary oil also improves circulation, which helps reduce pain while speeding up healing. This is best for cuts and scrapes. Because it is also an antibacterial, it will reduce the chances of infection as well.

Since it also has anti-inflammatory properties, this oil also works on other injuries. Sprains and joint aches can be soothed as the swelling is decreased. Just massage the oil into these areas and let it soak in. You can also add a few drops of this essential oil to a bath. As you soak, the oil will help to relieve aches, pains, and cramps. Those with rheumatism and arthritis can use this oil to deal with these chronic issues. Again, the bath works great, or you could massage it into the affected areas. The pain and swelling will both go down and you can continue with your day with a smile on your face.

#10 – Digestion:

Rosemary oil is used by many different cultures as a treatment for upset stomachs. This includes flatulence, stomach cramps, constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. There is a reason it works so well for these issues. Rosemary oil is an anti-inflammatory and a stimulant. Together, these help regulate your gastrointestinal system.

This oil helps regulate your bowel movements to keep you regular. Rosemary oil can also stimulate your appetite and reduce dyspepsia symptoms. Another benefit of this oil is that it can detoxify the liver. It helps regulate the body’s ability to create and release bile. This is especially important since bile is necessary for the digestive process.

Rosemary oil stimulates blood flow and increases circulation. These factors make it easier for you to absorb the nutrients you need from the food you eat. That’s one of the reasons rosemary leaves are added to meat dishes, to improve digestion. But if using the oil, don’t add it to your food. Instead, combine it with a carrier oil. Then massage it into your stomach, where it will be absorbed. You can also put a few drops in your bath for the same health benefits.

Benefits of Rosemary Oil Final Thoughts

The benefits of rosemary oil make it a great natural remedy for a wide variety of problems. Whether you use it for your hair, skin, or your insides, it can help to treat your issues and heal your body. If you are looking for more hair care articles check out our hair care buyer’s guides.

Footnotes:

• Stylecraze: 15 Best Benefits Of Rosemary Oil For Skin And Health
• Organic Facts: 11 Amazing Benefits Of Rosemary Oil
• Organic Facts: 11 Impressive Benefits Of Rosemary
• Natural Living Ideas: 21 Magical Uses & Benefits Of Rosemary Essential Oil
• Mercola: Refreshing Rosemary Oil

The post Kitchen Beauty! 10 Benefits of Rosemary Oil {Naturally} appeared first on Bloom Gorgeous.