Rosemary essential oil: uses and properties
Published on January 16, 2015 - Aromatherapy
The name comes from the Latin “ros marinus” meaning “sea dew”, because this shrub grows spontaneously along the coasts of the Mediterranean sea.
In ancient times it was often used as a substitute for incense that was too expensive, thanks to its intense and penetrating perfume. It was also considered a sacred plant and it was cultivated in every clime.
In even older times the plant was used by Egyptians during purification ceremonies.
Today rosemary essential oil is used mainly for culinary purposes, to flavor food. We often forget about its other important properties.
The essence is obtained via steam distillation, from flowering tops and stems, and it can be used for many different purposes.
Use and properties of rosemary essential oil
Psyche: Diffusing Rosemary essential oil in a room helps with focusing and relieves tiredness.
When we feel weak Rosemary increases the strength and desire to do things, lifting the mood.
It is a perfect essence for the workplace or studying.
Well-being: Rosemary essential oil is effective for liver detoxification, since it stimulates biliary secretion and digestion and activates the metabolism of toxins and waste products.
For this purpose just add a drop of E.O. to a teaspoon of honey, a few hours after a main meal.
The essence improves the microcirculation and it is perfect support to combat muscle and joint pain. Prepare a mixture diluting 10 drops of E.O. in 50 ml of extra virgin olive oil and apply it on the affected areas.
2 drops of essence massaged on the base of the neck can relieve headache.
Hair: Rosemary is a very effective remedy against hair loss and scalp problems.
Against dry dandruff add a total amount of 10-15 drops of Rosemary E.O. (or Rosemary + Tea tree) to 250 ml of neutral shampoo. Leave the shampoo on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing. The same preparation is helpful in case of hair loss, fine hair or greasy hair.
Food: Rosemary essential oil is used to flavor many foods, especially the second courses.
Another good utilization for rosemary is preparing a flavored oil: dilute 1 drop of E.O in 1 liter of extra virgin olive oil. For a stronger taste, you can add 2 or 3 more drops (but never more!), but it is better to start by adding just 1 drop, since rosemary E.O. has a strong flavor.
Recommendations on the use of rosemary essential oil
Remember that essential oils are extremely concentrated compounds and even a small amount may cause side effects. For internal use always consult an expert or your doctor.
Be careful in cases of topical application too: essential oils contain small-sized molecules, easily absorbed by our skin. An excessive amount may cause dermatitis. Do not use in areas of damaged skin and avoid contact with mucous membranes and eyes because they may cause irritation.
Mare informations on:
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.): cultivation, trasformation and use
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