Essential Oil of the Month: Rosemary
“… the pungent nobility of its strong, fresh scent lifts our spirits skyward, while the vital action of the essence raises the Qi [energy] and blood to the brain.” Gabriel Mojay, 1997 p. 150
This recognizable fragrant herb may be growing in your own yard, spotted on your daily walk, or even in your spice cupboard. Though Rosemary may be common, its many virtues should not be taken for granted. Below is just a few of those virtues:
Antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and decongestant
Repels insects like mosquitoes and black flies
Helps with headache and migraine
Supports increased blood circulation
Relieves sore muscle and joint pain
Reduces stress and negative emotions such as anger and frustration
Promotes hair growth while hydrating and repairing damaged hair
Supports the immune system
Improves mental clarity, focus and memory
Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean and receives its name from the Latin words “ros” (rose) and “marinus” (sea), which means “Rose of the Sea,” perhaps owing to the fact that it often grows on the sea cliffs of Spain, France, Greece, and Italy.
Known for centuries as “The oil [or herb] of remembrance,” it has been revered through the ages by many cultures. Sacred to Ancient Greeks and Romans, scholars wore rosemary in their hair to help remember their studies (Rosemary can increase the retention of information by enhancing concentration). Hippocrates often prescribed it for issues associated with the liver. Sprigs of rosemary were worn at special occasions such as weddings, and at funerals it was burned as an incense to honor the memory of the dead.
In Ancient Egypt Rosemary was placed in the tombs of Pharaohs to help them remember their former life.
In Shakespeare's Hamlet, Ophelia says “There's rosemary, that's for remembrance, pray you love, remember.”
And there are plenty of studies that verify this age-old attribute.
Having been used historically to improve memory, numerous studies have proven Rosemary oil's benefits on brain health. Along with a refreshing, reviving sense, one study signified an increase in beta power over the frontal region, supporting higher cognition in the thinking process. Previous studies also found that inhaling Rosemary Oil can have a positive effect on brain wave activities, autonomic nervous system responses, and aid in responding to different emotional states.
Another study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience showed that rosemary essential oil inhaled by 144 volunteers resulted in significantly enhanced memory, increased mental alertness, and had a positive effect on mood. *1
In East Asian medicine, the root emotion of the liver organ system is anger. When out of balance, it can hold onto negative emotions such as anger, frustration, and irritation. Rosemary’s association with the liver and its detoxifying qualities makes it useful in releasing these emotions.
For a massage oil that soothes nerves as well as anger and frustration:
2 drops Lavender Vera
3 drop Bergamot
2 Drops Rosemary
Place in a 10 ml (1/3 oz.) glass bottle of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil. Massage the abdomen in a clockwise direction.
For a detoxifying and muscle-easing salt bath: Mix the above oils in one cup of Sea Salt until evenly dispersed. Pour half cup of the mixture under running bath water, slip in, relax, and unwind.
For studying: The essential oil blend could also be used in a diffuser while studying, then put a few drops on a cotton ball or tissue and take it with you when testing. Some studies show using Rosemary in this manner can increase cognitive function and test accuracy by 13%.*3
Emotionally and spiritually, Rosemary can help us remember our true selves and our rightful place in this world. It is one of the best essential oils to bolster self-confidence and also helps promote a passion for life, creativity, and the calling of your heart.
PRECAUTIONS: Pregnant and nursing women, those with epilepsy or seizures, and those taking prescription drugs are especially advised not to use Rosemary essential oil. Always consult your physician if you have a medical condition. Not for use on children under 10 years of age, as it can be irritating to younger lungs.
*1 (Moss M, Cook J, Wesnes K, Duckett P. Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. Int J Neurosci. 2003;113:15–38. [PubMed]).
*2 Sci Pharm. 2013 Apr-Jun; 81(2): 531–542. Published online 2012 Dec 23. doi: 10.3797/scipharm.1209-05
*3 Moss, M., Cook, J., Wesnes, K., Duckett, P. (2003) (2008)Tisserand Institute 2023
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