Rosemary oil – The Mediterranean oil for skin and hair

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a fragrant evergreen plant belonging to the mint family. The herb is native to Mediterranean regions but is cultivated worldwide and is known for its culinary uses and as a traditional medicinal herb. The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the leaves and flowering tips of rosemary.

Table of contents

1. Rosemary oil – briefly explained
2. How is rosemary grown and pure oil extracted?
3. What ingredients are in rosemary oil?
4. Rosemary oil effects and benefits?
5. Rosemary oil: external and internal use, side effects and risks
6. Frequently asked questions about rosemary oil
7. Conclusion

1. Rosemary oil – briefly explained

Rosemary is typically grown in sunny, well-drained soils. The plant requires plenty of sunlight and tolerates dry conditions well. The leaves and tops are harvested when the plant is in flower, as this is when the essential oil content is highest. The harvested plant parts are then processed for steam distillation to extract rosemary essential oil.

Rosemary oil contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including carnosol, rosmarinic acid, cineole (eucalyptol), camphor, and various terpenes. These compounds give the oil its characteristic properties and therapeutic benefits.

It has been traditionally valued for its diverse health benefits. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and stimulant properties. Potential benefits include improving circulation, relieving muscle pain and tension, aiding digestion, and promoting concentration and memory.

Rosemary oil can be used both externally and internally. Externally, it can be diluted and applied to the skin to relieve sore muscles or promote circulation. It is also used in aromatherapy to increase energy and concentration. When taken internally, it can be used to aid digestion or added to food and drinks.

Pregnant women should seek professional advice before use, as certain ingredients in concentrated form may have side effects, especially if used internally.

Overall, this Mediterranean oil offers a variety of health benefits and uses, but it should be used with caution and in consideration of individual health needs.

2. How is rosemary grown and pure oil extracted?

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an evergreen plant that thrives primarily in regions with a Mediterranean climate. Rosemary is usually grown from cuttings or seeds. The plant requires well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight for optimal growth. Ideally, the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, and the humidity should be relatively low, as rosemary prefers dry conditions.

Rosemary can be grown both in the garden and in containers. The plant is hardy and drought-tolerant. Propagation by cuttings is the preferred method, as this produces a mature plant more quickly than growing from seed. The cuttings are usually taken in spring and rooted in a well-draining substrate.

Once mature, rosemary can grow up to 1 meter tall and spread widely, depending on climate and growing conditions. Rosemary is typically harvested when the plant is in flower. At this time, the essential oil content in the leaves and flowering tips is at its highest. Harvesting is usually done by hand by carefully cutting off the leaves and tips.

The resulting plant parts are then used to extract the essential oil. The most common method for obtaining pure rosemary oil is steam distillation. This involves heating the fresh or dried leaves and tips in a still. The rising steam carries the volatile oils, which are then condensed and collected in a container. The resulting product is a highly concentrated, pure essential oil.

In commercial agriculture, rosemary is often grown in large plantations. Irrigation systems are often used to meet the plants' water needs. Growing rosemary typically requires regular maintenance, including pruning, to stimulate growth and keep the plant healthy. Growing rosemary not only allows the leaves and tops to be harvested for oil, but the plant itself serves as an attractive ornamental with its aromatic fragrance and beautiful blue flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.

3. What ingredients are in rosemary oil?

Rosemary oil contains a variety of bioactive compounds that are responsible for its health benefits. The main components of rosemary oil are:

Cineole (eucalyptol): This is one of the most important components of rosemary oil and gives it its characteristic fresh note. Cineole has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties and can help relieve respiratory conditions.

Camphor: Camphor is another significant ingredient. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is often used to treat muscle and joint pain.

α-Pinene and β-Pinene: These terpenes give the oil its characteristic scent. They also have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Carnosol and carnosic acid: These compounds have strong antioxidant properties and help protect cells from oxidative stress.

Rosmarinic acid: Another important component that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may contribute to skin and digestive health.

Camphor quercitin: This is a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties.

Rosmarindiphenol: A specific compound found in rosemary that acts as a powerful antioxidant.

These and other compounds work synergistically to provide the multiple health benefits of rosemary oil.

4. Rosemary oil effects and benefits

Rosemary oil offers a variety of health benefits due to its rich bioactive compounds.

Improves circulation: Its ingredients can dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can help relieve muscle tension, support injury healing, and promote overall cardiovascular health.

Anti-inflammatory effects: Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it can help reduce inflammation in the body. It can be helpful for joint pain, arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions.

Antimicrobial properties: Rosemary oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a natural anti-infective. It can be used to treat skin infections, for oral hygiene, and to prevent bacterial infections.

Digestive support: Small amounts of the oil can aid digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and relieve bloating and indigestion. It can also help relieve stomach cramps and nausea.

Improves cognitive function: Some studies suggest that rosemary oil can improve cognitive function and boost memory. Its scent can increase concentration and attention.

Stress relief and mood enhancement: In aromatherapy, this oil can have a calming effect and help reduce stress. It is also used to improve mood and increase mental energy.

Skin care: Due to its antioxidant properties, it can promote skin health by fighting free radicals and slowing skin aging. It may also be helpful in treating acne and other skin problems.

Hair and scalp: Rosemary oil is used in hair care products because it stimulates the scalp and can stimulate hair growth. It can also help reduce dandruff and strengthen hair.

5. Rosemary oil: external and internal use, side effects and risks

This pure natural oil can be used both externally and internally, but certain precautions should be observed:

External application:

Massages: Rosemary oil can be diluted and applied to the skin for massages to relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow. It should be mixed with a carrier oil such as almond or coconut oil.

Aromatherapy: Used in aromatherapy diffusers or room nebulizers, it creates an invigorating scent that can promote concentration.

Hair care: A few drops of rosemary oil for hair can be mixed with a carrier oil and applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth.

For one application, mix 2–3 drops of rosemary oil with 1 tablespoon (approx. 15 ml) of coconut oil. Gently apply the mixture to the scalp, massage it in, and leave it on for at least 30 to 60 minutes—or overnight for more intensive care. Then rinse thoroughly with a mild shampoo.

Regular use once or twice a week can help soothe the scalp and prevent dandruff. For sensitive skin, it's recommended to start with a lower concentration of rosemary oil.

Rosemary oil can be helpful for skin problems such as acne, blemishes, or minor skin infections. It should always be used highly diluted—ideally with a skin-friendly carrier oil such as jojoba, almond, or coconut oil.

Example:
Mix 1–2 drops of rosemary oil with 1 teaspoon (approx. 5 ml) of jojoba oil. Apply the mixture to the affected areas of skin—e.g., individual pimples or irritated skin—and leave it on. Use 1–2 times daily.

Important: A patch test is recommended before first use to rule out skin reactions. If your skin is sensitive or irritated, the concentration should be further reduced.

Internal application:

Rosemary oil can be taken in very small amounts and diluted to aid digestion. For example, a drop of this oil can be taken with a tablespoon of honey or in a capsule.

The pure oil can also be used to flavor foods and beverages. A few drops can be added to soups, stews, salad dressings, or teas to enhance the flavor.

Side effects and precautions

Caution should be exercised when ingesting rosemary oil, as it can be caustic in concentrated form. An overdose may cause stomach upset, nausea, or other undesirable side effects. Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, children, and people with certain health conditions should consult their physician before using essential oils internally.

6. Frequently asked questions

Does rosemary essential oil help against hair loss or receding hairlines?

Rosemary essential oil may help with hair loss by increasing scalp blood flow and stimulating hair growth. It may help improve hair follicle health and slow hair loss. However, its effect on receding hairlines may be limited and depends on the cause of hair loss.

What are the benefits of rosemary essential oil for the scalp?

Rosemary oil has beneficial properties for the scalp, including promoting circulation and stimulating hair growth. It has anti-inflammatory properties, combats microorganisms on the scalp, and offers antioxidant benefits.

How often should you use rosemary oil for your hair?

The frequency of using rosemary oil for hair depends on individual needs and tolerance. Generally, it is recommended to apply a small amount of the oil to the scalp once or twice a week. It can be massaged onto the scalp before bedtime and left on overnight.

Which hair types is rosemary oil suitable for?

The use of rosemary oil is suitable for different hair types:

Normal hair: promotes scalp health and supports hair growth

Dry hair: improves blood circulation to the scalp and provides moisture, which benefits dry hair.

Oily hair: Due to its antimicrobial properties, it can help remove excess oil and dirt from the scalp.

Flaky hair: The anti-inflammatory properties of rosemary oil can help reduce dandruff and improve scalp health.

Thin or fine hair: Rosemary oil can stimulate hair growth and strengthen hair follicles, which can add volume to thin or fine hair.

What is the best way to wash rosemary oil off your hair?

To thoroughly remove rosemary oil from your hair, it can help to dilute it with a carrier oil such as almond or coconut oil before use. Massage a mild shampoo into your hair and rinse thoroughly. Rinsing with diluted apple cider vinegar or water with lemon juice can remove excess oil and enhance shine. If necessary, shampoo your hair twice to completely remove the oil.

What are the benefits of rosemary essential oil for psoriasis?

Rosemary essential oil can reduce inflammation in psoriasis, improve skin moisture, fight infection, and relieve itching.

Rosemary oil vs. castor oil for hair? Which is better?

Rosemary oil: Promotes scalp health, stimulates hair growth, has anti-inflammatory properties and nourishes the scalp.

Castor oil: Strengthens hair, promotes hair growth, moisturizes, helps prevent hair loss, and can improve the appearance of thin hair.

Are there different rosemary essential oils?

There are several chemical variants of rosemary essential oil, which can be produced by different rosemary species or harvesting methods. The most common variants include:

Rosmarinus officinalis ct. Verbenone: This rosemary oil has a higher verbenone content and is gentler and more compatible with the skin. It is often used in skin care products.

Rosmarinus officinalis ct. Cineole (eucalyptol): This variant contains a higher proportion of cineole (eucalyptol) and has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. It is often used for respiratory diseases.

Rosmarinus officinalis ct. Camphor: This rosemary oil has a higher camphor content and is sometimes used for its pain-relieving properties, such as for muscle and joint pain.

The chemical variants of rosemary oil can have different therapeutic properties, so it is important to select the specific variant for the desired purpose.

What are the dangers and contraindications of using rosemary oil?

Skin irritation may occur when using rosemary oil, especially on sensitive skin. People with rosemary or essential oil allergies should avoid it. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people with epilepsy should seek medical advice. High doses or drug interactions may cause side effects.

What precautions should be taken when using rosemary oil on the scalp?

When using rosemary oil on the scalp, be sure to dilute it with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil to avoid skin irritation. A patch test is recommended to rule out allergic reactions. Also, avoid getting the oil in your eyes.

7. Conclusion

Rosemary oil offers numerous health benefits, especially for skin and hair. It contains bioactive compounds such as cineole and camphor, which possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. These make it helpful in improving circulation, relieving muscle pain, and promoting hair and skin health. Rosemary oil can be used externally and, in small doses, internally, but should always be diluted to avoid skin irritation. Pregnant women and people with certain pre-existing medical conditions should seek medical advice before use.

More articles:
Eucalyptus oil (eucalyptus globulus) – the Australian miracle oil

Peppermint oil - the organic essential oil for headaches

Sources:

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Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar M, Hosseinzadeh H. Therapeutic effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and its active constituents on nervous system disorders. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2020;23(9):1100-1112. doi:10.22038/ijbms.2020.45269.10541

Moore J, Yousef M, Tsiani E. Anticancer Effects of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) Extract and Rosemary Extract Polyphenols. Nutrients. 2016;8(11):731. Published 2016 Nov 17. doi:10.3390/nu8110731