by Caetlyn R Campbell

Created on: November 20, 2007   Last Updated: November 21, 2007

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). There are actually THREE types of Rosemary, Camphor Type (do not use on pregnant women and children under 10), Rosemary Verbenone type, (again I would not use this on a pregnant woman and young children) and Cineole type Rosemary.

Each type of Rosemary has its own area of specialty.

Rosemary Camphor is used for tired muscles, rheumatism, cramps, sciatica, arthritis, colds, flu, all respiratory infections, such as Bronchitis, sinusitis, catarrh, stomach upsets such as constipation, bile production, flatulence, Edema, Nervous exhaustion, headaches, migraines, lethargy, and is a memory aid.

Major Chemical components are Ketones. Terpene Ketone

Rosemary Verbenone is a MUST for skin care. It is reputed to be excellent for skin regeneration, acne, dermatitis, dry skin, broken veins, dry or oily hair, dandruff, seborrhea, bronchitis, catarrh, sinusitis, asthma.

Major chemical component: Ketones, Verbenone.

Cineole Type Rosemary is the mildest of the Rosemarys and can even be used by young children and pregnant women after the first trimester.

Rosemary Cineole is the one to diffuse when suffering from sinusitis, catarrh, Bronchitis, colds, flu, stress, nervous exhaustion, constipation.

Major chemical component: Cineole

Note: As a professional Aromatherapist, I always remember that EOs are chemicals and I just do not like the idea of putting any chemicals on my body during early pregnancy. I never used them and I do not recommend anyone use them either. This is merely a personal choice and decision. Peppermint and Ginger were the only exceptions I made and those I only sniffed, a drop on a cloth tissue. There is nothing to prove that there is anything wrong or unsafe with using eos in the first trimester but it just pushes my comfort boundaries.

If you have more than one type or brand of Rosemary, get a Q-tip and do the smell test. Put a drop on a Q-tip and give a sniff. How does it smell? Is it weak, or strong? Does it smell sweet or musty, like alcohol or off? Does it smell like the plant or different? How does it compare to the herb in your cupboard?

How does it make you feel? Which one do you like more and why? When finished smelling, put your Q-tip down for about 10 minutes and then come back to it.

How does it smell now? Does it still smell strongly of Rosemary or has it diminished somewhat? Perhaps it has even disappeared altogether. Leave again for another 10 to 15 minutes and then come back and check it again. How does it smell NOW? Can

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