Rosemary essential oil comes from the Rosmarinus officinalis plant. For centuries, people have used this evergreen shrub in ceremonies, such as weddings and funerals, as well as for its medicinal properties. The herbaceous, robust aroma of rosemary is a favorite diffused by itself and also combines well with many other essential oils. Check out these 10 ways to use rosemary essential oil.
Beauty and Hygiene
Great for Hair and Scalp Health
One of the best-known uses for rosemary is in applications for the hair and scalp. Rosemary helps to balance sebum, improves the health of hair follicles, encourages thicker hair, and even adds shine and manageability. Try some of my favorite tried-and-true recipes using rosemary essential oil for hair:
Smooths the Skin
Rosemary essential oil is great for toning and improving the appearance of skin. It smooths bumpy areas and reduces the appearance of cellulite.
Oil Control
Many people love using rosemary on their faces because it helps control excess oil without drying the skin. Additionally, it cleanses and helps reduce the appearance of the pores of the face.
Reduces Puffiness
Applied topically, rosemary essential oil improves overall circulation and reduces inflammation. Apply it to red, puffy areas or mix it in with a facial toner or moisturizer. Although rosemary is generally mild, avoid close contact with the eyes.
Health
Improves Digestion
Rosemary may ease minor digestive complaints by inhibiting certain digestive enzymes. Try using rosemary topically for digestive issues, or add a few drops of dietary rosemary essential oil to a gelatin capsule and swallow.
Relieves Muscle Spasms
Certain constituents in rosemary essential oil have antispasmodic properties and can ease cramps and spasms. Next time you have a Charlie horse in your calf, try a gentle massage with some rosemary essential oil.
Boosts Male Virility
Rosmarinic acid is a mild stimulant found in rosemary essential oil. Studies show that when healthy men use this compound, it increases the speed of their “swimmers”.
Energizes and Opens the Airways
The bright, fresh scent of rosemary is great for increasing energy and supporting the respiratory system. Try this recipe for an invigorating shower to start your day.
Invigorating Rosemary Shower Melts
Ingredients
1/2 cup epsom salt
3/4 cup baking soda
12 drops rosemary essential oil
1-3 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Combine epsom salt, baking soda, and rosemary essential oil in a bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon water and stir well. Continue adding small amounts of water until mixture forms a thick paste. It will still be slightly crumbly but should hold a shape when squeezed together.
- Once the mixture is a thick paste, transfer to molds or an ice cube tray. Be sure to pack the mixture into each compartment, and then smooth and flatten with the back of a spoon.
- Place in a cool, dry place for about 24 hours or until melts are dry and set.
- Store in a jar with a lid.
To Use
Simply place a shower melt on the floor of your shower away from the direct spray of the shower head. If you used an ice cube tray or smaller molds for your melts, you may need to use two. The water and steam will break down the melts for an aromatic experience.
Emotional
Calming
Inhaling rosemary essential has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol. Adding it to a diffuser or wearing topically may help combat occasional stress. Check out this post for a DIY blend with rosemary essential oil to enhance courage!
Improves Concentration & Memory
Just as rosemary helps to energize the body, it also stimulates the mind. Studies show that inhaling rosemary essential oil actually promotes cognitive performance and combats mental fatigue. Even as far back as ancient Greece, students used sprigs of rosemary to help with passing exams.
Want to learn ways to use other essential oils? Then check out this post about 10 Ways to Use Geranium Essential Oil.
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