by Rowlandwithaw

Created on: June 05, 2009

A native of Mediterranean countries, rosemary has been used as a sacred herb and as a medicine for thousands of years. As a medicinal herb it is used primarily as a tonic for nervous debility, depression and headaches. It is also one of the classic culinary herbs. Rosemary is steam-distilled from the flowers and leaves of the plant, and is produced mainly in France, Spain, Croatia, Morocco and Tunisia. It is almost colourless with a strong, fresh herby smell.

It is a very versatile, warming and toning oil that has the effect of unblocking and stimulating various systems in the body. It may be used in massage blends, compresses, steam inhalations, in the bath and also as a room spray. It will combine well with many oils but especially with basil, lavender, lemongrass, orange, peppermint and pine.

Its primary action is on the circulatory system where it stimulates a weak heart and is useful for treating cold extremities and low blood pressure. It can also help to clear the blood vessels in cases of arteriosclerosis, use in the bath or as a massage blend. Rosemary has been shown to increase the circulation of blood to the brain and nervous system. Used in a burner in a room where people are trying to concentrate, it will improve memory and alertness. It can also be used to treat vertigo, lethargy and general debility. It is an important remedy for headaches and is helpful for many people with migraine.

The moving qualities of rosemary make it a good digestive tonic, promoting the flow of bile, helping to unblock an obstructed gall bladder and clearing gall-stones. It is also used to treat jaundice and hepatitis. It is an anti-spasmodic and antiseptic oil which can be used to treat gastro-intestinal infection, painful digestion, colic and flatulence. It will alleviate diarrhoea and colitis, particularly in weak, nervous people. Rosemary is beneficial for people suffering from chronic lung conditions. It may be employed to help coughs, colds and flu. It is also one of the main detoxifying combine it with lavender and juniper and use as a massage oil to detoxify the lymphatic system.

The warming, moving qualities of this oil make it helpful to those suffering from arthritis and rheumatism, especially when the symptoms are worse in the winter months. Dilute it with a base oil and use either to massage or apply a compress to the painful joint. Traditionally, it has been used as a treatment for problems of the hair and scalp. It stimulates the circulation to the latter and can be used to treat alopecia and dandruff.

Rosemary is non-toxic, non-irritant in dilution and non-sensitizing. It is an energizing and uplifting oil.

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