One of the most common essential oils on the market today is Rosmarinus officinalis known by its common name of rosemary, which many of us recognise from our gardens or culinary cupboard. The plant itself grows all over Europe now but originated from the Mediterranean.
There are three chemotypes of rosemary oil on the market with Rosmarinus officinalis ct cineole being the most popular (and the one discussed in this blog) followed by Rosmarinus officinalis ct camphor and then Rosmarinus officinalis ct verbenone. Rosemary has a fresh green scent that strong but pleasant that has a hint of eucalyptus within it and due to it growing in abundance and being a hardy plant is often one of the lesser expensive oils on the market.
Rosemary is steeped in history with the Greeks and Romans considering it a sacred plant that symbolised love and death. It has been used medicinally for centuries for stomach issues, purifying the air, burning at religious ceremonies and also features in the works of Shakespeare as being for remembrance.
The essential oil is often used for treating rheumatism and tired and stiff muscles due to it’s analgesic properties as well as for coughs, colds and other catarrhal conditions because it is mucolytic. It’s digestive benefits are well documented with it being known as a tonic to the liver and gallbladder and it’s refreshing scent is excellent for focus (it is well known for it’s stimulating effects on the central nervous system).
Mojay refers to rosemary as one of the most valuable and invigorating essential oils, describing it as an excellent tonic for the body’s yang energy which promotes circulation of Qi and blood.
Rosemary essential oil is non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitising however care should be taken when treating pregnant ladies and persons suffering epilepsy.
References
Lawless J. The encyclopaedia of essential oils. Element Books Limited, Great Britain, 1992.
Le Strange R. A history of herbal plants. Angus and Robertson, Great Britain, 1977.
Mojay G. Aromatherapy for healing the spirit. Hodder and Staughton, UK, 1996.
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