The plant
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) belongs to the Lamiaceae family; it is an evergreen shrub that can reach up to 2 meters in height with needle-like leaves and blue flowers.
Rosemary is originally from the Mediterranean basin and is currently cultivated in different parts of the world. This plant has a long history of use both in cooking and in folk medicine, thanks to its healing and aromatic properties.
History
Throughout history, rosemary has been used for multiple purposes. In Greek and Roman antiquity, for example, rosemary was often mentioned in texts and a stimulating effect on the mind and memory was attributed to it.
In the following centuries, rosemary was burned as incense, used for respiratory problems and later as a stomachic remedy, stimulating the circulation, analgesic and anti-rheumatic.
Rosemary essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of the flowering tops of the Rosmarinus officinalis plant; it is a colorless to pale yellow or greenish liquid. Rosemary essential oil has a typical aromatic scent, penetrating and eucalyptus or camphorated (depending on the type of chemotype) with pleasant woodiness. Rosemary is rich in beneficial properties for health and our well-being. It is a valuable source of antioxidants thanks to the phenolic compounds that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Furthermore, it has antibacterial and antispasmodic properties and is used for its mucolytic and expectorant action. Rosemary essential oil can be used in different ways, for example:
It is used in perfumery to compose fresh and herbaceous fragrances, to enrich bath and hair products. Rosemary essential oil can also be used for home care; you can add it to the steam cleaning cloth or diffuse it in the air as a room freshener alone or in combination with other essences, for example Lavender and Peppermint.
Rosemary essential oil can be adulterated with the addition of synthetic substances therefore, remember that it is always important to choose pure and natural essences whose origin is known. Being a plant native to the Mediterranean basin, favoring Italian essences is not only a ethical choice which minimizes the environmental impact, but honor the roots of this precious plant! In conclusion, rosemary is a versatile plant that has continued to be a precious ally for health and well-being since ancient times. If you want to take advantage of its properties, try Rosemary essential oil alone or in the various kits available.
Precautions
Rosemary essential oil
Properties of rosemary
Other uses
How to choose it
