Rosemary is an evergreen shrub and aromatic herb that is often associated with its culinary uses, however, it is also a powerful medicinal herb that has been studied quite extensively for a long list of health benefits. Rosemary is very popular in folk medicine and is very commonly used as an essential oil in Aromatherapy.

Rosemary has been traditionally used for memory loss, arthritic pain, poor digestion, gingivitis and hair loss, all of this has drawn scientist to begin researching and validating its uses.

Clinically-proven Benefits of Rosemary

1. Enhances Short-Term Memory when the essential oil is inhaled (see study).

2. Reduces Gingival bleeding and plaque when used as a toothpaste (see study).

3. Improves cognitive-function in elderly individuals when supplemented (see study).

4. Stimulates hair growth with similar efficacy to that of Minoxidil when used topically (see study).

5. Reduces anxiety & depression while improving sleep quality when supplemented (see study).

6. Significantly reduces salivary Cortisol (stress hormone) levels when inhaled (see study).

7. Increases blood pressure in hypotensive individuals when inhaled (see study).

How To Use Rosemary

Rosemary essential oil Inhalation: Inhale the undiluted oil for 5-10 minutes for improving memory and raising BP.

Rosemary dried leaf powder: 250-750mg twice a day (depending on your condition and as per your doctors recommendation)

Rosemary essential oil topically: Mix 5 drops of rosemary oil with 20 drops of a carrier oil such as almond or coconut oil and apply. Do not get it in your eyes or in any other orifices.

Rosemary tea: 1-2 cups daily.

Warnings & Precautions:

Rosemary must be used under the supervision of a physician when being utilized for therapeutic/medicinal purposes as it can result in certain adverse effects and side-effects if misused.

Rosemary can raise blood pressure. Although I personally have not seen a significant raise in clients that are not hypotensive, you should still be careful. It is a bit conflicting considering that the German Commission E has actually approved Rosemary to be used for treating Hypertension.

Large amounts when ingested can cause gastric irritation and/or kidney damage

Other potential side-effects include toxicity, seizures, vomiting, coma, pulmonary edema → Although in my experience, very large doses are needed for such effects to occur. Nevertheless, these are potential side-effects.

May increase menstrual bleeding and potentially cause a miscarriage so do not use if pregnant or trying to concieve.

It is best to use Rosemary under the supervision of a doctor who works with medicinal herbs.

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(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)

by Dr. Nishal R.
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