Very present in the Mediterranean basin, particularly in the scrubland or the maquis, this green and bushy shrub has narrow and hard leaves which, when rubbed, give off a strong camphor scent. Its light blue or pale lilac flowers form short clusters. This strand has medicinal properties, discovered by men over the centuries.
The Greeks made wreaths from it to strengthen memory and stimulate the intellect. In the Middle Ages, it was one of the ingredients deemed to protect against the plague. Because the dried flower and the leaves have active ingredients (polyphenols, flavonoids, camphor, phenolic acids…) which allow the organism to be at its best.
The dried leaves (flowering tops) or the essential oil are used. This has different chemotypes (CT), which means that the majority active molecule can vary depending on the place of growth. There are thus essential oils of verbenone rosemary, camphorated rosemary or cineole rosemary. Each of them having specific properties and recommended in particular indications.
Everything rosemary can do for you
Rosemary relieves liver ailments, treats biliary insufficiency, stimulates gastric secretions, restores appetite while soothing digestive disorders (bloating, slow digestion, flatulence, etc.).
We also appreciate it for its anti-inflammatory effects on joint pain. Antimicrobial, it activates the healing of inflamed acne pimples. It is also a great ally in the event of physical or intellectual fatigue, because it boosts cerebral circulation and the organism as a whole.
Finally, thanks to its antiseptic properties, it also strengthens the immune system to help it defend against viruses and bacteria that circulate. It is also recommended in asthenia consecutive to infectious diseases, because it restores tone to convalescents.
An acne solution with rosemary
Rosemary verbenone essential oil is antibacterial and healing.
Recipe : put 3 tablespoons of green clay in a glass container. Add 5 drops of EO (essential oil) of palmarosa, 3 drops of EO of rose geranium and 1 drop of EO of verbenone rosemary. Mix with a wooden utensil. Then add rosehip hydrosol (floral water) until a smooth paste is obtained.
How to use it ? Apply the preparation on the face, avoiding contact with the eyes. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse. Carry out this treatment once a week until a marked improvement in the condition of the skin. If the skin is very damaged, replace the clay with thyme honey.
A special hair lotion regrowth
Rosemary infusion helps strengthen the scalp, stimulate hair growth, and even improve hair shine.
Recipe : put 40 g of rosemary flowering tops in 1 liter of simmering water. Cover and let steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
How to use it ? After shampooing, rinse the hair with water, then with this hair lotion.
A treatment that calms low back pain
Indicated in case of cramps or aches, the essential oil of rosemary with camphor has relaxing and pain relieving properties.
Recipe : in the palm of your hand, put 5 ml of oily macerate of St. John’s Wort, add 2 drops of EO of rosemary to camphor, 2 drops of EO of lemon eucalyptus and 2 drops of EO of peppermint. To mix together.
How to use it ? Massage the painful area for 4 to 6 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day, for 3 to 5 days. If pain persists, seek medical attention. Do not expose yourself to the sun for 6 hours after application. This essential oil is contraindicated in case of allergy to camphor. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and is not suitable for children.
An anti-rheumatic bath infusion
This mixture to pour into the bath relieves joint pain.
Recipe : put 60 to 70 g of rosemary flowering tops in 1 liter of simmering water. Cover and let steep for 10 to 15 minutes. In a glass, put a dessert spoonful of cottage cheese. Add 6 drops of EO of noble laurel and 6 drops of EO of ylang-ylang. To mix together.
How to use it ? Pour the rosemary infusion and cottage cheese into a tub filled with lukewarm water. Mix well. Stay submerged 10 to 15 min, 1 to 3 times a week, for 30 days. Rinse.
Against intellectual overwork
Breathe in a few drops of essential oil of rosemary with cineole placed on a tissue, 2 or 3 times a day, a month before taking an exam.
Precautions for use with rosemary essential oil Before using an essential oil, put a drop in the crook of the elbow. If no redness appears after 5 to 10 minutes, it is okay. Avoid contact with the eyes. |
Read also :
- Rosemary infusions to live a hundred years?
- Rosemary, an expert in detox
- Choosing and using your essential oils