Rosemary Oil, NOW Foods, 1oz

Benefits

• Traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to support digestion
• Traditionally used to help relieve occasional bloating and indigestion
• May help support healthy circulation
• Rich in naturally occurring antioxidant polyphenols
• Traditionally used to support memory and concentration
• Helps condition hair and refresh the scalp (cosmetic use of rosemary oil)

What people commonly use it for

• Occasional indigestion and bloating (Traditional use, supported by European herbal monographs)
• Mental focus and alertness (Some clinical studies suggest the aroma may help)
• Cold hands and feet, and low circulation (Traditional use)
• Thinning-looking hair and a dry scalp (Early research suggests rosemary oil may help hair appearance)
• Mild muscle aches (topical) (Traditional use in massage oils)

Suggested to use alongside

• Hair oil: Rosemary is a popular hair oil ingredient
• Shampoo: Gentle cleansing for the scalp
• Ginkgo: Traditional herb used for memory

Rosemary's leaves are rich in phenolic diterpenes such as carnosic acid and carnosol, and in rosmarinic acid, a polyphenol also found in other mint-family herbs. These compounds are strong antioxidants, which is why rosemary extract is used to keep foods and oils fresh.

The essential oil contains 1,8-cineole, camphor and alpha-pinene. These aromatic compounds are thought to underpin the traditional use for focus. In one small study (Moss and Oliver, 2012, Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology), people exposed to rosemary aroma performed better on some memory tasks, and blood levels of 1,8-cineole were linked with the effect.

For digestion, rosemary is classed as a carminative and a mild bitter, which may help relax the gut and ease wind. The European Medicines Agency recognises rosemary leaf for traditional use for digestive discomfort and for mild muscle and joint aches when used on the skin.

For hair, a 2015 trial (Panahi and colleagues, SKINmed) compared rosemary oil with 2 per cent minoxidil and found similar improvements in hair count at six months, though it was small and had no placebo group.

• Extracts or tea are used internally.
• Essential oil is for external or aromatherapy use only, and must be diluted.

• Size: 1oz
• Form: Oil

• Naturally Sourced/Responsibly Made: This oil is extracted through steam distillation of tops of plants. Made in state-of-the-art laboratories, naturally derived and subject to purity testing in-house, vegan and never tested on any animals.
• 100% PURE/UNDILUTED: Highly concentrated and 100% pure and free of synthetic ingredients, delivering the very best benefit of the source of the plants, fruits, seeds, flowers, bark, stems, roots or leaves from which they come.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

Supplier ref: NOW Foods Rosemary Oil 1 Oz

What is rosemary good for?

Traditionally it is used for digestive comfort, circulation and mental alertness. The oil is also used in hair care and massage.

Does rosemary oil help hair growth?

One small study found rosemary oil helped hair count about as well as a common treatment. It is encouraging, but more research is needed.

How do I use rosemary oil on my hair?

Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil or add it to shampoo, massage into the scalp, and patch test first. Never apply undiluted.

Can I drink rosemary tea?

Yes, in normal amounts. A teaspoon of dried leaf steeped in hot water is a traditional preparation for digestion.

Does rosemary help with memory?

Aroma studies suggest a possible small effect on alertness and memory, but evidence is early.

Is culinary rosemary the same as a supplement?

Cooking uses small amounts. Supplements and extracts are more concentrated, so follow label directions.

Culinary amounts are safe. Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy. Speak to your healthcare professional before use if you take blood thinning, blood pressure or diabetes medicines, or have epilepsy, as the essential oil can be a trigger. Dilute essential oil and patch test.

NOW Foods is a family-owned American company making affordable, quality-tested supplements since 1968.

HerbalHealth.Shop is your friendly Australian home for natural health. We bring together a huge range of trusted vitamins, herbs and natural skin care, from the world's best-known brands to small family-owned businesses and handmade makers we're proud to support.