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What is Rosemary Oil?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Rosemary oil is an essential oil which is extracted from the rosemary plant, a Mediterranean native which has been used in food and medicinal treatments for centuries. Health food stores often stock rosemary oil, and it can sometimes also be purchased in large markets and stores which stock personal beauty items. Depending on the production method used, rosemary oil may be food grade, in which case it can be ingested if it is diluted, or it may be therapeutic, which means that it should not be consumed.

Like other essential oils, rosemary oil is extracted through a distillation process which expresses and isolates the natural oils present in the plant. The result is a highly concentrated and very intense oil which should not be used in pure form, except in some very specific cases. By contrast, rosemary extract is made by steeping rosemary leaves in a solvent, resulting in a preparation which is much more mild.

Rosemary oil may be helpful in treating dandruff.
Rosemary oil may be helpful in treating dandruff.

On the outside of the body, it can be blended with a carrier oil to treat dry skin and dandruff. It is especially popular in hair care products, including hot oil treatments for hair, and some people believe that it stimulates the growth of hair. It can also be used in massage for muscle pain, poor circulation, and joint problems. Some people also include rosemary oil in tinctures for digestive problems, although it needs to be highly diluted, as it can be toxic in large amounts.

The ancient Egyptians used rosemary essential oil to make incense.
The ancient Egyptians used rosemary essential oil to make incense.

Some alternative medicine practitioners advocate the use of rosemary oil for fatigue, and to increase alertness. Allegedly, the oil increases brain activity, making it potentially useful as a study aid to help people stay awake and focused. Aromatherapy diffusers with pure rosemary oil can be used to disperse the oil in a room, and it can also be blended into scented candles, incense, and potpourri blends.

Rosemary oil can be bought in food grade or therapeutic forms.
Rosemary oil can be bought in food grade or therapeutic forms.

The use of rosemary oil is not recommended for pregnant women, due to concerns that it could trigger contractions. Epileptics, individuals with hypertension, and people suffering from fevers should also avoid it, as it may make their conditions worse. At home, containers of rosemary oil should be clearly labeled to indicate that they need to be diluted before use, to avoid accidental ingestion or topical application of pure rosemary oil. It can be a good idea to keep essential oils in secure storage away from children and pets for safety.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

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    • Rosemary oil may be helpful in treating dandruff.
      By: Jasmin Merdan
      Rosemary oil may be helpful in treating dandruff.
    • The ancient Egyptians used rosemary essential oil to make incense.
      By: gigidread
      The ancient Egyptians used rosemary essential oil to make incense.
    • Rosemary oil can be bought in food grade or therapeutic forms.
      By: Lucie Říhová
      Rosemary oil can be bought in food grade or therapeutic forms.
    • Rosemary oil can be used in hot oil treatments to moisturize dry, frizzy hair.
      By: thelosteyeball
      Rosemary oil can be used in hot oil treatments to moisturize dry, frizzy hair.