Rosemary, like other herbs, has been a part of the kitchen and medicine shelf for thousands of years. Used for its flavor and as a cure even today, rosemary has gained popularity in its oil form, too!
The rosemary essential oil is extracted from the herb through steam-distillation. In this method, the herb is allowed to boil with water. Once the steam and oils are collected, they are separated to form the essential oil. The oil is equally beneficial as it retains rosemary’s anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties, which give it its health benefits.
Take a look at these benefits of rosemary essential oil and how you can use it.
1. Promotes Hair Growth
Rosemary essential oil improves blood circulation, thereby promoting hair growth. It is also known to ward off dandruff and reduce hair fall by hydrating and nourishing your scalp.1 Applying this oil can also prevent premature balding or greying of hair.
How To Use It
- Add 2–3 drops of rosemary essential oil to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or a carrier oil of your choice.
- Massage this mixture into your scalp and work toward the ends.
- Leave it in for 15–20 minutes and wash it off with shampoo.
- Repeat this twice or thrice a week for best results.
To get rid of dandruff, you can also add a few drops of the essential oil to your shampoo right before you wash your hair. Always use a carrier oil with rosemary oil as it can irritate your scalp.
2. Improves Cognitive Function
Rosemary oil is believed to improve concentration, help you study more efficiently, and boost your mental energy. Additionally, researchers found that inhaling rosemary oil significantly improves mood and memory.2 Its positive effects on your cognition and the potential to prevent Alzheimer’s disease can be attributed to its ability to prevent the breakdown of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine and perpetuate its stimulation.3
How To Use It
- Diffuse rosemary oil throughout your room, inhale it directly from the bottle, or rub it on your temples to improve your cognition.
3. Treats Aging Skin
When applied to your skin, antioxidant-rich rosemary essential oil can fight free radicals and help you get rid of premature signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles and protect your skin from sun damage.4 Its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties work together to help you get rid of pimples, acne, and oily skin.5
How To Use It
- Mix 2 drops of rosemary essential oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil.
- Massage this mixture on to your face for about 10 minutes.
- Rinse your face with warm water and pat it dry.
Applying it regularly can give your skin a natural glow. To avoid skin irritation, always dilute it or use it with a carrier oil.
4. Relieves Stress
In response to stress, your body releases cortisol. Chronic stress can lead to a further increase in cortisol levels, which is not good for your body. Rosemary essential oil is known to reduce the levels of cortisol by instantly relieving stress and reduce associated symptoms such as lowered immune function and bone density, weight gain, blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart disease.6
How To Use It
- Apply 1 drop of essential oil to your temple and massage it for a soothing effect.
- While doing this, you can also cup your hand to inhale its scent.
5. Alleviates Pain
Rosemary oil can effectively reduce headaches, muscle aches, rheumatism, and joint aches by increasing blood circulation. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it beneficial in alleviating joint pain associated with arthritis.7
How To Use It
- Apply rosemary essential oil directly to the affected area and massage to relieve pain.
- Take vapor baths with rosemary essential oil to reduce pain caused by rheumatism.
6. Cures Indigestion
In addition to curing indigestion, rosemary essential oil can relieve constipation, stomach cramps, gas, and bloating.8 It is a good detoxifier that helps to eliminate toxins from the liver and regulates the production and secretion of bile, which plays an important role in the digestion process.9 It may also stimulate your appetite and improve the absorption of nutrients.
How To Use It
- Combine a few drops of essential oil with coconut oil and massage it on to the skin of your stomach.
7. Improves Dental Health
As a natural disinfectant, rosemary essential oil can kill oral bacteria and protect you from problems such as bad breath, gingivitis, cavities, and plaque.10
How To Use It
- Use it as a mouthwash by adding 10–12 drops of rosemary oil to a cup of water.
Note: Pregnant and breastfeeding women must avoid using rosemary essential oil as it can lead to a miscarriage or affect the fetus.
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