Rosemary essential oil

Rosemary is a famous herb used in the traditional culinary arts of many nations. It is especially popular in Mediterranean countries, where aromatic spices are an important element of most dishes. In addition to its taste, this plant also has health-promoting properties appreciated for many hundreds of years. In the Middle Ages, it was an essential ingredient in every pharmacy. It was used as a stress reliever and as a relaxing agent. Its beneficial effect on digestive ailments and headaches has also been noticed.

Rosemary essential oil

Rosemary oil is obtained, as the name suggests, from the leaves of the medicinal rosemary. This thermophilic plant occurs naturally mainly in the Mediterranean basin, in Italy, France, Spain and Tunisia. You can also meet her in Mexico and the USA. It is known and grown all over Europe as a houseplant. The main producer and exporter of rosemary oil is Spain.

Rosemary oil is obtained from the leaves of the plant by distillation. The content of this raw material in fresh leaves is about 1.5%. Immediately after preparation, it is a colorless liquid which turns brown with time. It is characterized by an intense woody fragrance, very similar to the smell of fresh herbs.

Rosemary oil is one of the most frequently used ingredients in aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is a branch of unconventional medicine that uses the interesting effect of oils on mental and physical health. Its first documentation comes from the Middle Ages. Currently, this technique is used for inhalations, massages, baths, showers and wraps. Certain essential oils can also be taken internally with caution.

Rosemary oil - composition and action

Scientific research has shown that a large number of different chemical compounds can be found in essential oil. 8-cineole, camphor and alpha-pinene are the most abundant. It also contains linalool, geraniol and eugenol. The exact proportions depend on the raw material used, the place of cultivation and the degree of maturity of the plant. From the chemical point of view, most of the compounds found in rosemary oil are classified as terpenes. It is these substances that are responsible for the characteristic, intense smell of the product.

Many compounds isolated from rosemary leaves have shown antioxidant activity in scientific experiments. This suggests the potential properties of the essential oil of this plant to reduce oxidative stress in the body. There are also studies showing the anti-cancer activity of compounds in rosemary leaves. In experiments, they showed an activity inhibiting the proliferation of cells of some neoplastic tumors.

What is rosemary oil good for?

In natural medicine, rosemary oil is used to treat a wide range of diseases. It is used as a strongly revitalizing and anti-aging agent. Publications indicate its stimulating effect on the nervous system, which suggests its effectiveness in the treatment of apathy and depression. It is also used in frequent ailments such as headaches and rheumatic pains. The literature also mentions this product as a means of alleviating the symptoms of upper respiratory tract diseases, with a moisturizing effect on the pharyngeal and laryngeal mucosa.

Alternative medicine uses rosemary oil in patients with hypotension, paying attention to the stimulating properties of this oil in relation to the circulatory system. In addition, it is also said to have anti-inflammatory and anti-edema properties. Applied externally, it can have soothing properties and prevent baldness.

Rosemary oil for memory and concentration

Many years ago, rosemary oil was used by the indigenous peoples of the Mediterranean basin to prevent Alzheimer's disease. Indeed, current research has shown that the substances contained in the leaves of this plant can have a positive effect on the maintenance of cognitive abilities. The use of the plant extract improved long-term memory in rats, possibly by stimulating mRNA expression and inhibiting acetylcholinesterase in the brain. The general relaxing and antioxidant properties of the oil can also positively influence the improvement of cognitive abilities.

Herbs in cosmetics, i.e. rosemary oil for eyebrows, hair and nails

Rosemary oil has a mild effect. It can be used as a skin and hair care cosmetic. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, it can reduce the signs of aging and remove signs of fatigue. Its anti-inflammatory effect also makes it an ideal component for acne skin care. It is especially recommended for people with oily skin.

Massage with rosemary oil nourishes the skin and relaxes the mind. Using the product on the hair can prevent excessive greasing and have an anti-dandruff effect. Its regular use gives the hair shine and stimulates growth.