Rosemary ~ Rosmarinus officinalis CT 1,8 cineol

12:35 PM Posted by jo

Rosemary is one of the best known and most used of aromatic herbs. The Greeks and the Romans considered it a sacred plant and it symbolized love and death. Traces of rosemary has been found in the Egyptian dynasty tombs. Hippocrates recommended to cook rosemary with vegetables to overcome spleen and liver disorders.

Rosemary has several chemotypes and the three principal chemotypes are:

1,8 cineole
verbenone
camphor-borneol

The different chemotypes can be applied for different purposes to achieve maximum efficiency. According to Battaglia, the 1,8 cineole type rosemary is best used in connection with pulmonary congestion and to faciliate elimination from the kidneys and the liver. The camphor type is most suited for muscular aches and pains. The verbenone rosemary is great for high quality skin care preparations since it is a safe and non-irritant oil.

Rosemary 1,8 cineole is what I'm going to focus on today.

Origin

Rosemary is originally from Asia but is now grown in the Mediterranean region. Much of the oil today comes from France, Spain or Tunisia.

Aroma

Rosemary has a strong, penetrating and clear aroma. It is a refreshing and stimulating herbal fragrance. It is said to overcome mental fatigue and to improve mental clarity and focus.

Historical and traditional uses

Grave robbing bandits used a blend called "Marseilles Vinegar" or "Four Thieves Vinegar" to protect themselves from the plaque. Rosemary was part of this vinegar. Rosemary has been used medicinally for centuries. Dioscorides and Theophastrus both recommended it as a powerful remedy for liver and stomach problems. Rosemary originally had white flowers according to folklore, but they turned red after Virgin Mary laid her cloak over the bush. Rosemary has also been burnt as an incense to ward off devils, which later become a practice by the sick to protect against infection.

Indications, therapeutic actions and traditional uses

According to Battaglia, rosemary is considered one of the best tonics for central nervous system. He says it strengthens mental clarity and awareness. It is an excellent brain stimulant and has traditionally been used to improve memory. According to Battaglia, it has also historically been a valuable oil for respiratory problems such as catarrh, sinusitis, common cold and asthma. He also says it is an analgesic oil and as such it has historically ben used in massage, compresses and bath to relieve pain in arthritis, rheumatism or stiff, tired and overworked muscles.

According to Battaglia, rosemary is a good remedy for low blood pressure since it stimulates blood circulation. He also said it is an excellent tonic for the liver and gall bladder, and it has traditionally been used for the treatments of biliary colic, gall stones and gall bladder infections. According to Battaglia, rosemary helps lower high blood sugar.

According to Gary Young, rosemary is also indicated for myalgia, menstrual disturbances, indigestion, bronchitis, respiratory and lung infections, hair loss and hepatitis. Young also says rosemary improves concentration.

Safety

If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Epileptics should use with caution. It is best not to use rosemary with high blood pressure.

Possible skin sensitivity. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Dilution recommended for both topical and internal use. Dilute before using on sensitive areas such as the face, neck, genital area, etc. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use on children under 4 years of age.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.
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