Characteristics of Rosemary
Rosemary, or Rosmarinus officinalis, is a perennial and evergreen herb that belongs to the Heilanthus family. It presents the image of a multi-branched shrub, with hard branches, rich aromatic foliage and a height of up to 2 meters.
There are many native species of rosemary that can be found in the wild and in soils with good drainage and a neutral ph. The flowers grow in clusters and are purple or white in color, depending on the variety of the plant. It blooms from April to August and the intense fragrance of its flowers attracts beneficial insects such as butterflies and bees for honey production.
Rosemary essential oil is produced from the leaves and flowers of the herb using the steam distillation method. The flowers are picked at the heart of flowering, shortly after the first rays of the sun, when the essential oils are at a high concentration. To obtain 5 ml of rosemary essential oil, 500 g of flowers are needed.

History of Rosemary

Its name, Rosemary, comes from the Latin ros marinus meaning "rose of the sea". First distilled in the 13th century, it was believed to bring good luck and ward off negative energy and harmful reptiles. For this reason, they planted it on the fences of the houses and around the health centers. The Egyptians placed sprigs of fresh rosemary in the tombs of the pharaohs, while in Asian countries it was an essential herb for strengthening the heart and arrhythmias.
It is one of the most widely used medicinal plants whose burning, since ancient times, cleansed the spaces of diseases. Together with thyme and eucalyptus, our ancestors considered it as a room disinfectant. From ancient times to the present, rosemary has been observed to enhance memory and clarity, and as a rejuvenating herb, it was thought to be ruled by the sun.
Traditional farmers planted rosemary among seasonal vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower) to secure the harvest and prevent harmful insects.

Components
Rosemary essential oil from the flowering tops and young branches of the plant, using the steam distillation method.

Chemical composition of rosemary essential oil
- 1% volatile oil contains cineol, borneol, verbenol, 10 – 20% camphor, linalool and camphene.
- Triterpenic acids, rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid. Carnosic acid protects the brain from neurodegeneration and enhances brain functions.
- Rosmanisin. The breakdown of rosmanisin in the body stimulates the digestive and biliary muscles.
- Pigments, mainly diosmin, a substance that improves circulation and strengthens fragile vessels.
- Tannins, bitter elements and resin.

Uses
- For the development of hair growth and the treatment of hair loss.
Put a few drops of rosemary essential oil in laurel oil and massage into the roots. Leave the oil on for 4-5 minutes before rinsing and repeat 2 times a week.*
-A few inhalations of rosemary essential oil help maintain acetylcholine, a substance that stimulates mental acuity and maintains good memory.
- To improve circulation and treat cold extremities, add a few drops of rosemary essential oil to sesame oil and massage into feet and hands.*
- Can be used diluted in arnica and chamomile oil to treat muscle stiffness and spasms (cramps).*
* Contact our pharmacist for the preparation of the above therapeutic mixtures.
-Combines well with essential oil of cypress, basil, lemon, mint, juniper, sage.

Chinese medicine
Chinese medicine classifies rosemary in the element of wood and is used to strengthen the heart, weak concentration. The essential oil is considered one of the best remedies for joint pain of a cold and spastic nature, massaging specific acupuncture points helps the flow of bile and improves digestion.
It moves the vital energy - Qi and strengthens the mind - Shen. It warms the spirit and strengthens our self-confidence.
Helpful tips
Rosemary may interact with chemical medications. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are being treated. Avoid its use during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by small children. Avoid direct sun exposure after use.
The essential oil should always be used dissolved in a base oil or other solvent. The use of rosemary essential oil is intended for external use.