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Your Guide to Everything Related to Rosemary Essential Oils

Your Guide to Everything Related to Rosemary Essential Oils

Have you ever caught a whiff of Rosemary and felt instantly transported—maybe to a cosy kitchen where a hearty meal is being prepared or perhaps to a lush garden on a sunlit day? Belonging to the Lamiaceae family, there’s something undeniably magical about this herb. But here’s the kicker: Rosemary isn’t just about tantalising your senses or adding flavour to your roast chicken. It’s a wellness powerhouse with a history of medicinal use dating back centuries.

Rosemary herb is native to the Mediterranean region and thrives in warm, sunny climates. In fact, it has been used by ancient Greek and Roman civilisations for its aromatic scent and medicinal properties. Nowadays, Rosemary is widely cultivated around the world and can be found in almost every household kitchen.

So what makes Rosemary so special? Why does it keep popping up in everything from aromatherapy oils to skincare products? In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the origins, properties, chemotypes, and uses of rosemary essential oil.

Plant Description and Origin

Rosemary is a hardy shrub or bush that maintains its evergreen foliage throughout the year. Typically growing over 1.5 meters in height, this plant is known for its dense, bushy appearance, with numerous branches spreading outward.

  • Stems:
    The young stems of Rosemary have a distinctive orangey hue and a soft, downy texture. As the plant matures, these stems darken to a grey-brown colour and become woody.
  • Leaves:
    The leaves are small, narrow, and leathery, with a dark green upper surface and a whitish, downy underside. These leaves are sessile, meaning they attach directly to the stem without a stalk.
  • Flowers:
    The Rosemary flower is a beautiful example of a gamopetalous bilabiate structure—it has a two-lipped appearance.
  • The upper lip comprises two erect petals that bend backward.
  • The lower lip features three petals, often with darker veins or spots on the central petal.
  • Flower colours range from white to pink and light violet.

The calyx is short and bilobed, with three pointed teeth—one on the upper lobe and two on the lower lobe—coloured reddish-brown. Inside, the flower houses four stamens:

  • Two are sterile and reduced to hook-like structures.
  • The other two are fertile and curve outward from the corolla, with their filaments joined at the base.

The style, a single stigma, protrudes slightly above the stamens.

  • Fruiting:
    Rosemary’s fruit takes the form of a small, hard tetra-achene, containing four individual nutlets.
  • Flower Clusters:
    Flowers grow in small, charming bunches nestled in the leaf axils, adding to the plant’s ornamental appeal.

Extraction and Chemotypes of Rosemary Essential Oil

The primary part of the Rosemary plant used for essential oil production is its flowering branches. These branches are typically harvested from sustainably sourced wild-growing plants, ensuring ecological balance and maintaining plant biodiversity. The extraction of Rosemary essential oil is generally achieved through:

  1. Steam Distillation:
    This is the most common method used, leveraging steam to extract volatile compounds from the plant material.
  2. CO2 Extraction:
    A more advanced method of producing a concentrated and purer extract, often used for high-end applications.

Distillation Details:

  • Average distillation time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
  • Yield: 0.2% - 0.5% (depending on plant quality and environmental factors)

Chemotypes

Rosemary essential oil exhibits significant biochemical variability, resulting in three primary chemotypes (CTs). These variations are largely determined by the plant's growing region and environmental conditions:

  1. Camphor (CT Camphor): Found in southeastern France and Spain, it has robust circulatory and neuro-muscular properties.
  2. 1,8 Cineole (CT 1,8 Cineole): Predominantly from North Africa, this is the most abundant and cost-effective chemotype, renowned for respiratory benefits.
  3. Verbenone (CT Verbenone): Exclusive to Corsica, this rare and premium chemotype targets liver and gallbladder health.

Rosemary: A Herb Steeped in Ancient Lore and Healing Traditions

Rosemary’s story begins in the mists of antiquity, where it was revered not just as a plant but as a symbol of life, death, and divine connection. Archaeologists have uncovered sprigs of rosemary in Egyptian tombs dating back to 3000 BC, a testament to its sacred status even then. The Greeks and Romans, too, held this aromatic herb in high esteem. To them, rosemary symbolised comfort for the living and peace for the dead, with its fragrant sprigs adorning their gods and burned as incense in rituals and celebrations.

As centuries passed, rosemary’s legend grew alongside its reputation as a therapeutic powerhouse. It was the Arab physicians who first mastered the art of extracting rosemary essential oil—a practice that later captured the imagination of the Renaissance alchemists. Throughout medieval Europe, rosemary was celebrated not just for its scent but for its medicinal virtues.

Herbalists of the time offered glowing testimonials:

  • Wilhelm Ryff declared, “The spirits of the heart and entire body feel joy from this drink, which dispels all despondency and worry.”
  • Otto Brunfels championed rosemary for slowing aging, recommending its daily consumption with sage.
  • Nicholas Culpeper, renowned for his herbal remedies, proclaimed its effectiveness against “all cold diseases of the head and brain,” such as giddiness, lethargy, and even epilepsy.

Even its name reflects its poetic essence. Derived from the Latin words ros (dew) and marinus (sea), "rosemary" is often translated as “dew of the sea,” a nod to its coastal Mediterranean origins and its crisp, briny aroma.

A botanical marvel, Rosmarinus officinalis is as resilient as it is fragrant. Thriving across Mediterranean regions, it flourishes with minimal care, its flowering buds bursting forth almost year-round. This enduring bloom cycle mirrors the plant’s timeless role in human history—a symbol of vitality, remembrance, and healing that continues to inspire.

Principal Constituents of the Camphor Chemotype

Constituent Type Constituent Percentage Range
C10 Terpenes α and β pinenes >14% and <5%

Camphene <14%

Paracymene <2%

Myrcene Up to 12%

Limonene <3.5%
C15 Terpenes β Caryophyllene 3% - 8%

α Humulene <1%
C10 Alcohols Linalool <4%

Borneol 3% - 5%

Terpinene-4-ol <2%

α Terpineol <2%

Nerol and Geraniol <1%
Esters Bornyl and Isobornyl Acetate <1%

Linalyl Acetate <1%
Oxides 1,8-Cineole 17% - 25%
C10 Ketones Camphor 15% - 30%

Verbenone <1%

Rosemary Chemotypes: A Breakdown of Distinct Profiles

Rosemary essential oil is celebrated for its diverse range of chemotypes, each offering unique characteristics and applications. Let’s dive into the two most notable chemotypes: 1.8 cineole and verbenone.

1.8 Cineole Chemotype

  • Composition:
  • 1.8 Cineole: Dominant, accounting for 40–55% of the content.
  • Camphor (borneone): Present in moderate amounts (7–15%).
  • α-Pinene: Found in significant concentrations (8–17%).
  • Features:
    This chemotype is the most abundant and widely available. It is commonly labelled as “Rosemary” in consumer-grade essential oils due to its accessibility and affordability. Its strong, fresh aroma and high cineole content make it an excellent choice for respiratory support and mental clarity, often used in diffusers and therapeutic blends.

Verbenone Chemotype

  • Origin:
    This rare chemotype is exclusive to Corsica, though a similar profile is observed in oils from Sardinia.
  • Composition:
  • Verbenone: Ranges from 5–40%, lending a softer, subtler fragrance.
  • Bornyl Acetate: Adds complexity with 1–10% content.
  • α-Pinene: Remains the most abundant compound, at 15–38%.
  • Camphor: Reduced levels, between 5–15%.
  • 1.8 Cineole: Also lower, comprising 6–22%.
  • Features:
    The verbenone chemotype is prized for its refined and delicate profile, making it the least common and most expensive. Its production is often a cottage industry, reflecting artisanal care and limited yields. Renowned for skin care benefits and gentler therapeutic properties, it’s favoured in luxury wellness products and high-end aromatherapy.

Therapeutic Properties of Camphor Chemotype

Therapeutic Property Indications
Diaphoretic, Expectorant, Mucolytic Onset of colds and flu with fatigue, aches, pain, and chilliness. Acute rheumatic or neuralgic pains. Respiratory congestion and infections such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and asthma with mucus congestion.
Neuro-Muscular Action Circulatory stimulant, cardiotonic, tonifies the “Yang.” Muscular cramps, spasms, sore or overworked muscles; muscular rheumatism; temporary paralysis. Cardiac deficiency, palpitations. Fatigue, cold extremities, circulatory stasis, varicose veins, fluid retention. Hypertension (small doses); Hypotension (larger doses).
Reproductive Tonic, Emmenagogue, Hormone-like Amenorrhoea, PMS with depression. Low sexual energy, impotence, or infertility.
Digestive Stimulant, Liver/Gall Bladder Stimulant, Mild Diuretic Indigestion, weak digestion, chronic gastroenteritis, colitis, cholecystitis, jaundice, gallstones (due to damp or cold), high cholesterol, and possibly atherosclerosis.
Neurotonic, General Tonic, Adrenal Stimulant, Qi Tonic Memory/brain stimulant, absentmindedness, memory loss, “brain fatigue,” fatigue, temporary paralysis. Asthma and wheezing. Fatigue, depression from overwork and stress, post-illness debility. Possible hyperglycaemia vision impairment.
Mild Anti-Infectious, Cicatrisant Skin infections, wounds, and burns. Chronic candidiasis, lice, and scabies.

Skin Conditions and Uses of Camphor Chemotype

Therapeutic Action Skin Condition Applications
Cytophylactic Mature/dry skin Promotes skin regeneration and repair
Hair and Scalp Health Hair loss, scalp disorders, dandruff Stimulates scalp circulation and improves hair health
Skin Firmness Sagging skin Enhances skin tone and elasticity
Wound Healing Wounds Assists in faster recovery and healing
Decongestant Puffiness/swelling Reduces inflammation and swelling
Antibacterial Acne Helps clear skin by combating bacteria
Antiparasitic Skin parasites - lice, scabies Treats skin infestations effectively

Therapeutic Properties of 1.8 Cineole Chemotype:

  1. Respiratory Support: This chemotype is highly beneficial for respiratory and ENT issues such as colds, flu, coughs, bronchitis, asthma, and ear infections. It works as an expectorant and mucolytic, helping to clear mucus and ease breathing.
  2. Liver Health: While it is not as strongly focused on liver and gallbladder health as some other chemotypes, it can act as a liver decongestant and tonic, especially when combined with oils like Lemon EO. This combination is particularly helpful when liver weakness is linked to recurrent ENT problems.
  3. Support for Flu and Infections: Although it doesn't have potent anti-infectious properties on its own, it can be an effective addition to an anti-flu blend. Blending it with oils like Eucalyptus radiata, Meleleuca quinquenervia, and others makes it a great choice for Aromatic Perfusion during flu season.
  4. Pain Relief: This chemotype also functions as an analgesic for various types of pain, including toothaches, headaches, and the discomfort caused by rheumatoid arthritis. It is also safe for use with teething children, providing gentle relief.
  5. Circulatory Tonic: Rosemary CT2 can be used to enhance circulation, both venous and arterial. When combined with oils such as Cypress for venous circulation and Everlasting for arterial health, it supports overall circulatory function.

Therapeutic Properties of Verbenone Chemotype

  1. Liver and Gallbladder Support: The Verbenone chemotype is highly effective for addressing liver and gallbladder issues, particularly when combined with other essential oils such as Lemon, Peppermint, and Basil. It is beneficial for conditions linked to poor digestion, difficulty digesting fatty foods, constipation, and alcohol or drug-related problems. It helps support liver detoxification and improve overall digestive function.
  2. Cholesterol and Lipolytic Action: Rosemary Verbenone is a lipolytic essential oil, meaning it aids in the breakdown of fats. It is particularly helpful for individuals with elevated cholesterol, and when combined with Sage EO (for women) and Cypress EO (for men), it can promote healthy cholesterol levels. For arteriosclerosis, combining it with Everlasting EO provides an effective treatment.
  3. Balancing Effect on the Body: Rosemary CT 3 acts as a physiological balancer, offering both draining and stimulating effects. It is an excellent immunostimulant, which helps promote the immune system's response to infectious conditions. Additionally, it supports the elimination of mucous congestion and facilitates the absorption of anti-infectious phenolic oils (e.g., Oregano, Winter Savory, and Red Thyme), helping to reduce strain on the liver.
  4. Mucolytic and Respiratory Support: Like Rosemary CT 1, Verbenone is a mucolytic oil that is effective in addressing conditions related to mucous congestion and discharge. It is beneficial for both respiratory and genital issues where there is mucus accumulation.
  5. Psychic and Emotional Balancing: Rosemary CT 3 has been praised for its ability to rebalance the psyche, especially by experts in Aromatic Medicine such as Pierre Franchomme and Philippe Mailhebiau. It is a gentle and effective oil for managing nervous fatigue, nervous depression, and post-natal depression, making it suitable for a wide range of individuals, including those experiencing emotional or mental health struggles.

Aromatic Energetics

The aromatic energetics of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) present a fascinating duality, with its ability to move in two distinct directions:

  1. Down and Inward: This aspect of Rosemary's energy supports digestion, with its choleretic (bile-producing), mild laxative, diuretic, and emmenagogue (promoting menstruation) properties. These actions make it a supportive herb for the digestive and excretory systems, helping to ease issues related to poor digestion, fluid retention, and menstrual irregularities.
  2. Up and Outward: Rosemary also acts as a cephalic oil, promoting mental clarity and focus. Its nervine action makes it calming for the nervous system, while its diaphoretic (promoting sweating) and anti-rheumatic properties support detoxification and the relief of conditions like rheumatism. This "up and out" quality makes it an excellent oil for invigorating both the body and mind, helping to release tension, promote circulation, and uplift the spirit.

Epicenter of Rosemary’s Energetics

The balance of Rosemary’s energetics lies in the heart and lungs, the "centre" of the body, where it provides restorative benefits. It is particularly helpful for individuals experiencing:

  • Fatigue
  • Heart palpitations
  • Shallow breathing
  • Depression
  • Lack of self-esteem

Rosemary’s effect on the circulatory system brings warmth and vitality, stimulating both physical and emotional circulation. It tonifies the Yang force by activating the adrenal glands and the sympathetic nervous system, thus providing energy and vitality.

A Qi Tonic

Due to its stimulating effects on the glandular system, especially the adrenals, spleen, and liver, Rosemary has long been praised as a restorative or Qi tonic. Historically, Renaissance herbalist Wilhelm Ryff remarked that a Rosemary infusion could lift the spirits and dispel despondency. Similarly, Swiss herbalist Otto Brunfels praised Rosemary for its anti-aging properties, noting its ability to slow aging, particularly when consumed regularly as an infusion.

Antioxidant and Vitality-Boosting Properties

Both Sage and Rosemary are recognised for their strong antioxidant effects, which contribute to their rejuvenating and vitality-boosting properties. This effect is most potent in infusions or CO2 extracts of these herbs, helping to fight aging and restore energy and enthusiasm.

Emotional and Mental Effects

As Gabriel Mojay notes, Rosemary is associated with the Sun in astrological terms, symbolising vitality and individuality. Traditionally viewed as an exhilarating herb, Rosemary is particularly suited for individuals who feel debilitated, lack self-confidence, or struggle with a poor sense of self-worth. For those who are prone to overthinking or self-doubt, Rosemary helps to:

  • Boost confidence
  • Enhance morale
  • Reinforce the Heart and Mind (Shen)
  • Warm the Spirit, encouraging boldness and self-assurance

Rosemary essential oil is an efficient spiritual balancer, promoting clarity, vitality, and self-empowerment. Its ability to rejuvenate the Heart and invigorate the Mind (Shen) makes it especially valuable for individuals in need of emotional support or those struggling with self-worth and mental fatigue. As a warming, uplifting, and invigorating oil, Rosemary can help individuals rekindle their inner strength and approach life with renewed energy, confidence, and enthusiasm.

Kinesiology

Rosemary essential oil, specifically the CT Camphor chemotype, has been found to potentially influence specific meridians and their associated muscles in the body. These connections play a key role in how essential oil may affect both physical and energetic aspects of the body. Below is a list of muscles and the corresponding meridians that may be influenced by Rosemary CT Camphor:

Muscle Meridian
Supraspinatus Central
Pectoralis Major Clavicular Stomach
Latissimus Dorsi Pancreas
Trapezius Spleen
Subscapularis Heart
Psoas Kidney
Gluteus Medius Circulation / Sex
Anterior Deltoid Gall Bladder
Pectoralis Major Sternal Liver

Safety Issues

For all three Rosemary chemotypes (Camphor, Verbenone, and 1.8 Cineole), there are no significant contraindications for topical applications. It is safe to use during pregnancy when applied topically in concentrations of 2.5% or less, which is considered conservative and poses no risk.

However, caution is advised when using the Camphor and Verbenone chemotypes for individuals with epilepsy. While low-dose topical applications have not been shown to trigger seizures in those whose epilepsy is controlled by medication, caution is still recommended. The concern stems from reports of epileptic-like seizures in healthy adults who took large oral doses of essential oils like Sage or Hyssop over extended periods. Despite this, no seizures have been reported with topical use of Rosemary or other essential oils. Interestingly, Rosemary has a traditional history of being used to treat epilepsy (falling sickness), as noted by herbalist Nicholas Culpeper, who recommended Rosemary infusions and medicated wines in small, homeopathic doses.

Always dilute Rosemary essential oil before topical use, as it is classified as a weak sensitiser. In rare cases, it may cause allergic reactions in individuals with hypersensitive skin.

Toxicity Rating

Rosemary essential oil, regardless of chemotype (1.8 Cineole, Camphor, or Verbenone), has a toxicity rating of 2, meaning it has an LD50 (lethal dose for 50% of the population) between 1 and 2 grams per kilogram of bodyweight.

Due to the presence of compounds like 1.8 cineole and camphor, which can be toxic in higher doses, Rosemary essential oil should be kept out of the reach of children. Bottles should have child-resistant caps and dropper inserts to prevent accidental ingestion. For small children, even oral ingestion of less than 10 mL could lead to toxic or potentially fatal effects.

It is crucial to always exercise caution and store essential oils safely to prevent harm, especially in households with children.

Final Note

In essence, Rosemary essential oil is a versatile and powerful oil, with distinct chemotypes offering unique benefits for various health concerns. Whether you're looking to boost your respiratory health, improve circulation, support your liver, or uplift your mood, Rosemary’s therapeutic properties make it an essential addition to your wellness routine. From its rich historical significance to its modern-day applications in aromatherapy, this essential oil continues to be valued for its wide-ranging effects on the body and mind. When used correctly, Rosemary oil offers a safe, effective, and natural way to support physical and emotional well-being.

At Amrita Court Global, we offer a variety of Rosemary essential oil products to help you experience the full benefits of this fantastic oil. Our pure and organic Rosemary essential oil is sourced from the finest quality plants and distilled using advanced methods to ensure maximum potency. We also carry a range of blends that combine Rosemary with other complementary oils, providing you with targeted support for specific health concerns. So why wait? Visit our website, add it to your cart now and see the difference it can make in your life.

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