Essential oils are healing oils derived from plants and other botanicals. They offer a variety of benefits, and rosemary essential oil is one of the best.

Rosemary is known to be a popular complement to savory dishes all over the world. Although renowned for its herbal flavor, rosemary essential oil is jam-packed with a host of health benefits that go far beyond taste. From cosmetic enhancements to mental stimulation, the oil derived from rosemary is astounding.

Belonging to the mint family, the rosemary bush is a cousin to popular herbs like basil, sage, and lavender. Ancient civilizations found great benefit from implementing rosemary into their dishes and popularized routines.

For example, Ancient Egyptians used rosemary oil to create an alluring aroma. The Romans found the rosemary herb to be quite sacred; often times using it for weddings and religious occasions. The 16th-century practitioner Paracelsus made the weighty claim that rosemary oil even had the power to restore organs like the brain and heart. It is truly more than just a savory seasoning.

Today, rosemary oil is readily available to the masses. Many have even implemented this holistic alternative into their wellness routine. You can add a few drops to your bath or even to topical lotion. It is recommended to limit topical use to about two drops.

Rosemary oil is light enough to be implemented into holistic blends for satisfactory results. Let’s consider a few wonders of this beautiful herb.

Hair Growth

A recent study found that when individuals rubbed rosemary oil into their scalp, they experienced a “22.4% increase in new hair growth.” Rosemary oil is packed with nutrients that increase microcirculation, or blood flow, to the scalp.

This promotes healing and a strengthening of the scalp which results in optimal hair growth for the future. In addition, adding rosemary oil into your hair care routine can help to prevent immature baldness or even receding hairlines.

Improved Memory

Fans of Shakespeare may remember Ophelia’s related quote, “There’s rosemary, that’s more remembrance: pray, love, remember.” Although Ophelia was quite the mad woman, she knew her herbs. Rosemary oil, when inhaled, can help to increase long-term memory, focus, and the ability to retain information. Individuals who suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia may experience sharper thinking and decreased symptoms.

A recent study found that when individuals were given rosemary oil to smell, their memory retention increased by almost 75%. One way to reap the benefits is to mix the oil into a diffuser. Others have found that adding rosemary oil to boiling water, and inhaling the vapor was just as effective.

Decreased Stress

Rosemary oil has been known to decrease cortisol levels in the body. When this occurs, the mind and body are working at an equilibrium of balance. You are able to handle life’s tasks with mental clarity without unnecessary social or inner fear. Individuals who suffer from chronic depression or anxiety could benefit from adding rosemary oil to their wellness routine.

Boost in Immunity

Rosemary oil helps to boost immunity to further fight infections. When an individual feels congested, suffers from a cough, or deals with pesky allergies, rosemary oil is a beneficial additive. It can be added to boiling water or even placed into a diffuser to reach the optimal benefits.

Possible Side Effects of Rosemary Oil

Currently, rosemary oil has no known toxins or detrimental uses. As mentioned, topical use should be limited to two or three drops and properly diluted. Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication for chronic diseases should consult with a healthcare professional prior to use.

It is highly recommended to avoid consuming rosemary oil as it could induce vomiting. In addition, redness or discoloration could occur when used for the first time.