Rosemary Essential Oil: Benefits, Dosage and Safety Information

Rosemary Rosmarinus officianalis herb was most common in the South of France (Provence), Italy, Spain, Tunisia and Dalmatia. At one time, it’s main use was in cooking, infusions into vegetable oils and later, essential oil, which was obtained by steam distillation.  The main constituents or chemical components within Rosemary, depending on the chemotype, are pinene, camphene, cineole, borneals, camphors. (1)

Along with many other issues we will fill you in on, Rosemary essential oil is known for it’s ability to assist with the circulatory system.  This is due to the stimulating constituents within the oil.  The therapeutic effects also depend on the chemotype of the oil which is determined by the components as mentioned above.  There are 3 major chemo types (ct) of Rosemary used for essential oil; ct camphor, ct. verbenone and ct. 1-8 cineole.

When purchasing Rosemary essential oil, the chemo type should always be included on the bottle, along with the name and botanical name.  Like any essential oil, the safety of the oil is determined by the components within the oil and although some are from the same species, the chemistry can vary.

With the exception of Rosemary Rosmarinus officianlis ct. 1,8-cineole, the standard dilution rates for Rosemary apply.  Nine drops of essential oil to one ounce of carrier is equivilant to 1% dilution rate.  The standard dilution rate for Rosemary is as follows:

Up to 3 months, no oils; 3-24 mnths. 0.5%; 2-6 yrs. 2%; 6-15 yrs. 3%, 15+ is 5% and for those that are pregnant, 2%.

These are maximum dilution rates.  Always start at the lowest possible dilution rate.  Your maximum is your threshold.  This especially applies to children and the eldery.  Their skin is quite senstive and in the very young, their respiratory system is more delicate than others.

Ct 1-8, cineole is found in many many oils, up to a possible 270 oils, and it offers remarkable therapeutic properties including as an expectorant, hypotensive, central nervous system stimulant although sedative as well, great anesthetic, helps in opening broncial airways and many more properties that I will cover here.  (2)

Valnet continues that Rosemary therapeutic properties also include a general cardiac stimulant, stimulant to the adrenal cortex restorative, a cerbral stimulant and more. Rosemary also offers skin healing properties for wounds and burns, as a parasiticde and even as an aphrodisiac. (3)

Because 1-8 cineole presents a risk of negative interefence in younger undeveloped respiratory systems, Tisserand advises caution with Rosemary 1-8, cineole chemotype.  The recommended maximum dilution rates for 1,8-cineole are; for 3-24 months, 0.5%; 2-6 yrs. 1%; 6-15 yrs, 2%; 15+, 5% and those pregnant, 2%.  Again, I’d like to re-iterate that this is maximum use to stay in the “safety zone”.

Now that we’ve covered the safety of Rosemary essential oil, along with your essential oil, Rosemary herb is one of the strongest herbs for the liver, gallbladder and colon and has no safety concerns.  It’s important to chat a bit about the herb since it works well with the essential oil, internally and externally.  For internal use, you can steep 1 tablespoon of rosemary leaves in boiling water.  Leave to sit for at least 10 minutes.  Drink one cup after each meal.  Doing this for a period of

I do not encourage internal use of essential oils without proper training in pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of essential oils.  This includes learning to use the proper dosage, application (depending on diagnosis), duration of time, gathering a case history on client, using oils that are considered “safe” for internal use, knowing the cause (not just symptoms),

Methods of application can include for internal use, capsules filled with honey and suggested amount of essential oil.  For Rosemary, 3-4 drops twice a day is sufficient. Anymore can create adverse effects.  Eat a proper meal with your dosage.  If treating lower bowel issues such as IBS, you will need enteric capsules to withstand the uric acid in the gut and make it to the lower bowel where IBS occurs.

*I encourage you to seek the advice of a Qualified Aromatherapist trained in Aromatic Medicine before attempting internal use.*

For pain and inflammation in isolated areas, there is a two-step process I will use.  For instance, if the gallbladder area is where the discomfort is occurring, I will prepare a blend to use in a warm compress to apply over the area.  Along with the compress, I dilute the blend to apply along the spinal area.  Our nerves run down the spinal cord and branch out to the various organs throughout the body. By massaging the area where the nerves branch out to the gallbladder, this seems to bring great relief to the area.

Where Can I Get this Essential Oil?

If you choose to purchase your oils from Walmart, Walgreens, Target or other department stores or online “department” type stores, first check the company’s website online to ensure the essential oil has a GC/MS (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) report available.  This is the ONLY way to determine essential oil purity.  Some reputable companies do sell in stores.  Plant Therapy, a well-known and reputable company, sells some of their oils in Walmart and has the GC/MS reports on all their oils online.  Edens Garden sells some of their oils through Amazon and is another company who has their GC/MS reports on their website.  If unsure, here is a list of company’s (where to buy essential oils) I recommend.

1. Wound Healer

Rosemary has shown to be a cerebral stimulant, creating more blood flow. When using Rosemary in your wound healing product, it helps to increase more blood flow to the wounded area. This is due to the component Camphor, present in all Rosemary chemotypes, from a small percentage up to over 30% of the oil found in the Rosemary chemotype (ct) Camphor. The wound healing component in Rosemary is Borneol, a component found under the essential oil chemical family Monoterpenols.

This component helps to lessen the healing time and has shown great results in healing the scarring as well.  Along with other wound healing oils, you’ll cut your healing time down dramatically.  Once your wound has scabbed over and is sealed, you can begin using your product.  When choosing your Rosemary, look for the GC/MS report and the two mentioned components for wound healing.  Many company’s carry various chemotypes.  Always use companies that provide these reports on their website. (4)

Wound Healing Blend

  • One-ounce Tamanu oil or carrier of choice
  • 10 drops Rosemary Rosmarinusofficianalis ct. Verbenone
  • 7 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
  • 3 drops Jasmine absolute Jasminum grandiflorum

Directions: Apply up to 4 times a day, especially after shower and before bed. Duration of time depends on the depth of the wound and scarring,

2. Lower Blood Pressure

Because of Rosemary’s ability to stimulate the circulatory system, it stands to reason that it would assist with the levels of blood pressure.  As stated in article, “The increase achieved in blood pressure values after administration of Rosemary essential oil is clinically significant. The results obtained from this prospective clinical trial prove the effectiveness of statistical methodology as a new approach to explain the anti-hypotensive effect of rosemary essential oil and its relationship with the improvement in patients’ quality of life”. (5)

Important Note: Ensuring quality oils, ensures positive therapeutic results.  Use companies that provide GC/MS testing results on site, has reasonable pricing (a high price oil is NOT indicative of quality), harvests with plant preservation in mind and sustainability. Some companies have failed “third party testing”.  Chemists will test various companies at request.  Occasionally an oil will fail testing for added synthetic ingredients in the oil. A company will do this to “stretch” the oil, however it ruins the therapeutic benefits. To find failed reports check with the Facebook group EOCR (Essential Oil Consumer Reports).  To learn more why safety is a concern to us and why we help you, our consumers, stay safe, visit this injury database that is kept to keep track of injuries and how we can help avoid them,  To learn more on injuries from using essential oils without safety guidelines, please visit  http://aromatherapyunited.org/.

3. Improve your Immune System

One way to improve is getting your lymphatic system and circulatory system’s functioning correctly.  Rosemary’s stimulating properties can help them do just that.  By doing a lymphatic massage and cleanse, and along with a clean diet and exercise, you can improve your immune system dramatically.  Another important step in keeping your immune system healthy is keeping your mouth and throat wet.

Drinking water is not only important in keeping our insides healthy, but it also keeps our mouth moist.  I dry mouth can lead to bacterial infections such as candida, or mouth sores.  This in turn can weaken our immune systems, especially after being ill. Many people who have gone through chemo and/or radiation suffer from mouth issues and are encouraged to keep their mouths moist and bacteria free.

Important Note: Whatever you choose for an oil, make sure that the oils you purchase are high quality. Remember, you’re breathing this oil into your lungs so essential oil quality is a terrible place to cut corners.

4. Give your Gallbladder a Boost

Per Jean Valnet, to protect the gallbladder, this is done through Rosemary “tonics”, which is the herbs steeped and a tea or tonic drank.  (6)

Along with following the directions given in the beginning of the article on steeping  Rosemary leaves, massaging or stimulating the vagus nerve with Rosemary essential oil can ease inflammation.  The vagus nerve extends from the brain stem to the lowest viscera of the abdomen and very much beyond and massaging it can bring tremendous relief.  The vagus nerve travels through multiple organs such as the lungs and the heart, spreading its network to the tongue, throat, intestines and glands. The vagus nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for maintaining unconscious actions such as keeping the heart rate constant and instigating the breakdown of food. But the gallbladder?

That’s right, it includes the gallbladder and plays a crucial role in the functioning our biliary system.  The nerve helps control the contraction of the gallbladder, stimulates the digestive system and gallbladder. and influences the production and release of bile into the gallbladder.  If you suspect a more serious issue, consult your physician.

Try the following for a comforting massage.

  • One-ounce Jojoba oil or carrier of choice
  • 3 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ct. 1,8 cineole
  • 2 drops Lavender (angustifolia)
  • 4 drops Roman Chamomile Chamaemelum nobile

5. Stimulate the Liver

Using the same method as we used on the gallbladder, you will find this may help to stimulate your liver. Apply over the area where your liver is as well as your spinal cord. Diet plays and important role in keeping the liver healthy as well.

6. Relieve Cold and Flu Symptoms

One of the greatest benefits of Rosemary essential oil is its function as an expectorant. Whether you are still suffering from the cold or flu or remnants of it, an expectorant will help to clear out the left behind mucous build up.  An expectorant works to release sputum, phlegm and mucous from our airways allowing us to breath more freely as well as relieve infection.  The following is a sure win.  Use the Rosemary chemotype that suits your needs, depending on age you will use it one.  Remember, that children’s respiratory systems are still developing and vulnerable to harsher oils.  Follow the recommended dilution rates as well.

Congestion Relief Cream (adults)

  • 1 ounce unscented lotion or carrier oil
  • 8 drops Ravintsara Cinnamomum camphora ct. 1,8 cineole
  • 6 drops Eucalyptus Eucalyptus globulus
  • 4 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ct. 1,8 cineole

Blend and apply to chest and neck area as often as needed. This also goes great in a personal inhaler.  Inhalers area a great way to get right to the source.  Using along-side a topical application could cut your healing time down.

Do THIS Every Morning with Coconut Oil

Learn More

7. Improve Circulation

There is nothing more stimulating for the circulatory systems than Rosemary essential oil.  After a busy day, gently massage your legs to increase circulation and ease pain and any inflammation. If you tend to be on the cold side, by increasing your circulation, the body becomes warmer.  Try a good overall massage with the following.

For arterial, venous and capillary stimulation:

  • One-Ounce carrier of choice
  • 5 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officianalis  (Ct of choice)
  • 5 drops Petitgrain Citrus aurantium var. Amara or Bigaradia
  • 3 drops Helichrysum Helichrysm italicum

8. Relieve Headache Pain

Rosemary is excellent in relieving headaches, including migraines by not only stimulating the circulatory system, increasing blood supply to the area, it also stimulates the central nervous system, relieving tension and headaches. You can try combining the following with a carrier oil or unscented lotion and rub on your temples and base of your neck.  You can also add the following to an inhaler to bring almost instant relief.  A few drops on a warm compress (away from skin) applied across the forehead will also ease pain.

Headache-Migraine

  • One-ounce Unscented lotion, carrier oil or one Inhaler
  • 6 drops Frankincense Boswellia carterii
  • 5 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ct. verbenone
  • 4 drops Eucalyptus Eucalyptus globulus
  • 1 drop Jasmine Jasminum grandiflorum

9. Relieve Sore Achy Muscles

Rosemary, no matter the chemotype, has peripheral antinociceptive activity, which means it is capable of reducing sensitivity to pain (analgesic). Rosemary is also a strong anti-inflammatory and along with its well-known ability to stimulate the circulatory system, it brings great relief to sore, tight muscles.  Try the following after your workout at the gym, in the yard, running or whatever your workout is.  Use after shower and before bedtime.  My recommendation for carrier oils are Tamanu or Trauma oil, both available at most essential oil websites.

Sore Muscle Relief

  • One-ounce Carrier oil of choice
  • 5 drops Rosemary (camphor or 1,8 cineole ct.)
  • 3 drops Black Pepper Piper nigrum
  • 6 drops Cypress Cupressus sempervirens
  • 4 drops Ginger Zingiber officinale

Alzheimer’s-Reversing Oil that is Beating Prescription Drugs

Learn More

10. Reduce Arthritis Inflammation

As with sore muscles, Rosemary can bring great relief to inflammation due to arthritis, specifically Rheumatoid Arthritis. (7)

The oils in the previous blend are also recommended for Rheumatoid arthritis.  For daily minor aches, consider reducing the blend from 2% to 1%.  To do this, use 2 ounces of carrier oil instead of one ounce.

11. Get Relief from Neuropathy or Neuralgia

Damage to your peripheral nerves or Neuropathy, can cause weakness, inflammation, numbness and pain in your hands and feet as well as other parts of your body.  Stimulation to the central nervous system may bring relief from the various symptoms of neuropathy. As with previous uses, stimulation is key to keeping our bodies functioning more efficiently and in our favor.

Use the previous blends or try the following blend.

  • One-ounce carrier of choice
  • 6 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ct. 1,8 cineole or ct. camphor
  • 4 drops Eucalyptus Eucalyptus globulus
  • 5 drops Sweet Marjoram Origanum majorana
  • 3 drops Lemon Citrus limon

12. Relieve Acne

Rosemary essential oil has shown to enhance the free radical scavenging activity in the body by inhalation of Rosemary.  (8)

This can decrease free radical induced skin damage.  Rosemary is also long been used as an astringent.  Rosemary will help to regulate the oil secretions of the hair follicles.

I’ve created the following as part of a cleansing regimen.  Try these or create your own.  For skincare products, I recommend keeping your percentage no more than 1% or 9 drops of essential oil to carrier, keeping in mind the safety of each individual oil you choose to use.

Acne Soap

  • One-ounce Castile Soap or Glycerin Soap
  • 4 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ct. 1,8 cineole
  • 5 drops Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia

Acne Astringent

  • One-ounce ACV-Braggs Organic
  • 4 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ct. 1,8 cineole
  • 10 drops Lavender Lavendula angustifolia

Acne Spot Treatment

  • One-ounce Calendula Infused Organic Oil
  • 4 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ct. 1,8 cineole
  • 6 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
  • 5 drops Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia

YOU Can Control Your Blood Sugar…

…Using Apple Cider Vinegar. Click to Read the Research.

Learn More

13. Reduce the Appearance of Cellulite

Cellulite is a multifactorial condition and can be stubborn to many different treatments.  Muscle building, tanning, diet, vitamins and plenty of hydration can help lessen the appearance of cellulite.  Massaging the skin with stimulating and skin healing essential oils can also greatly improve the appearance of your skin and lessen the appearance of cellulite.  Use any of the previous blends which have multi-factual uses, however, replace with Rosemary ct. Verbenone for cellulite.

14. Reduce Stretch Marks

Rosemary can help to regenerate connective tissues, reducing scarring from stretch marks and other wounds. To increase its effectiveness, blend with skin healing (cicatrisant) oils. Use the following 3-4 times a day for at least 6-8 weeks. If your skin becomes irritated, stop immediately.

Try the following:

  • One-ounce Tamanu or Trauma oil
  • 3 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ct. verbenone
  • 2 drops Frankincense Boswellia carterii
  • 3 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum itlicum
  • 2 drops Lavender Lavendula angustifolia

15. Get Rid of Dandruff

Dandruff is a condition that may be caused by one or more factors including a dry scalp, oily or greasy skin (seborrheic dermatitis), over or under shampooing, eczema, psoriasis or other similar skin issues or sensitivity to hair products (contact dermatitis).  Dandruff can also be a result of a fungal infection.

Although caused by many different issues, Rosemary has proven to be effective against dandruff.   When blending with your shampoo, consider Rosemary ct. verbenone and add no more than 9 drops per ounce of shampoo.  My recommendation is look for an unscented organic base shampoo that you can add your oil to.

16. Encourage New Hair Growth

One of the loved uses for Rosemary, notably Rosemary Ct. Camphor, is for hair growth, specifically baldness/alopecia.  Keeping dilution rates in mind, adding to your shampoo as prementioned will help encourage hair growth.

Try the following blend to add to your shampoo.

  • 3 drops Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ct. camphor
  • 3 drops Clary Sage Salvia sclarea
  • 3 drops Thyme Thymus vulgaris ct. linalol
  • 3 drops Sandalwood Santalum album or Santalum paniculatum

Cutting Edge Coconut Oil & Cannabis Cancer Miracle

Learn More

17. Help Get Rid of Sinusitis

Follow the method used in #18 to relieve Sinusitis, Tonsilitis, and increase mucous secretion. Rosemary will help you get back to breathing more clearly.

18. Fight Bronchitis

Breathing in Rosemary allows the oil to penetrate the bronchial tubes, helping to ease inflammation and discomfort. Along with diffusing and the use of inhalers, you can do a steam. Bring about a quart of water to a boil and turn off.  Allow boil to stop and carefully transfer to a heat resistant boil.

Add no more than 2 drops of Rosemary essential oil. Using a small hand towel and keeping your eyes closed, cover your head and breathe in the steam. Cautious not to burn yourself. Take deep cleansing breaths.  After you can let the water stand in the room the help cleanse the air.

Coconut Oil and Belly Fat

Learn More

19. Improve your Memory

Because of the stimulating effects that Rosemary can have on the circulatory system and the central nervous system, it stands to reason and has been shown that it will help improve our cognitive awareness.  (8)

The most effective method of application is through direct inhalation.  Making personal inhalers are handy and you can carry them with you no matter where you go.  I especially like to use my inhaler when studying for chemistry exams to keep my memory sharp.

*Consult your physician before you use rosemary EO if you are currently taking any medication for conditions like high blood pressure, edema or diabetes. It also can interact badly with lithium and blood thinners.*

20. Beat Fatigue

Rosemary is one the best essential oils for beating fatigue.  We know Rosemary is stimulating which makes it great for mornings to “wake” up your brain by clearing it and energizing your body at the same time.  I recommend the inhaler method here.  When making inhalers, use no more than 15 drops or less if required.

Going over the safe yet effective amount in inhalers will not bring better results, however can lead to negative reactions.  Rosemary in your diffuser in the mornings or any time of the day is another way to apply your oils.  Avoid using diffusers in public settings since many can be allergic  to any essential oil.

Mother Nature’s All-In-One, All-Natural, Cure-All, and Multi-Purpose Life Elixir

Apple Cider Vinegar has an AMAZING number of uses for your health

Special Report

Please leave a comment to let me know if this list helped and tell me about your own personal experiences with rosemary essential oil. We can all share our experiences to take part in compiling a more complete list of its benefits. Be sure to share, too, so that others can learn about all of this oil’s natural benefits

References:

  1. The Practice of Aromatherapy, Dr. Jean Valnet, Rosmarinus officinalis; Pg. 177
  2. The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual, Sylla Sheppard-Hanger, Vol. II; Pg.493
  3. The Practice of Aromatherapy, Dr. Jean Valnet, Properties; Pg. 177
  4. Essential Oil Safety, Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young, 2nd ed., 2007; pg. 407-407
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24269249 Effectiveness of Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil as anti-hypotensive agent in primary hypotensive patients and its influence on health-related quality of life.
  6. The Practice of Aromatherapy, Dr. Jean Valnet, Rosmarinus officinalis; Pg. 179
  7. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Salvatore Battaglia, 3rd. Ed., Vol. I; pg. 509
  8. The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual, Sylla Sheppard-Hanger, Vol. II; Pg.373