Rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis) Spain

A highly valued herb in ancient cultures, Rosemary was used in Greece, Rome, and Egypt for remembrance and loyalty. Shakespeare referred to it in his play ‘Hamlet’ when Ophelia says “There’s Rosemary...that’s for remembrance...” French tradition called for Rosemary to be burned to fumigate sick rooms.

Rosemary increases blood supply to the brain, making it good for memory, concentration, and focus. It has been used to help restore the sense of smell. A drop of Rosemary placed under the nose can often help with hangovers, migraines, mental exhaustion, and general clarity of mind and spirit. Rosemary imparts energy, confidence and stability. It can help renew interest in one’s spiritual path and banish feelings of apathy.

As a circulatory stimulant, Rosemary can be used in a massage oil for sore muscles, sprains, strains, arthritis, gout, and varicose veins. Rosemary stimulates the heart and can also be used for low blood pressure, vertigo, and fainting. It brings on menstruation and can be used for menstrual cramps as a massage oil diluted in Grapeseed oil.

Rosemary has many uses for the skin and hair. It is drying to the skin and is recommended for acne, diluted in Jojoba oil. It is stimulating to the scalp, and can be added to a shampoo or conditioner to help oily hair, control dandruff, and encourage hair growth. It is also an insect repellent, and can be used to drive away lice and scabies.

Warming to the system in general, Rosemary can be diffused into a room to ease the symptoms of colds, flu, bronchitis, and asthma.

Rosemary should not be used with epileptics or those with high blood pressure.

Always dilute your essential oils in an unscented carrier oil like Sesame or Jojoba. Do not take essential oils internally. Always store essential oils out of heat and sunlight. Keep essential oils away from children and pregnant women.

All information in this description is copyright Kamala’s Own LLC. Please ask for permission to reprint it. This description is not medical advice and the information herein comes from personal experience, research, and folklore. If you believe you are ill, consult an M.D. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any medical condition. Nothing here has been evaluated by the FDA.