The benefits of the Rosemary Herb

Rosemary is a fragrant evergreen herb native to the Mediterranean and is used as a culinary ingredient. It is considered to be part of the mint family Lamiaceae, along with many other herbs, such as oregano, thyme, basil, and lavender. The herb has been hailed from ancient times for its medicinal properties. Rosemary was traditionally used not only for its taste but for its many health benefits which include the following:

• Alleviating muscle pain
• Improving memory and concentration
• Enhancing the immune and circulatory system
• Promoting hair growth
• Aiding digestion as well as treating indigestion
• Delaying brain ageing

Rosemary is a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are believed to help boost the immune system and improve blood circulation as well as digestion. In Europe, rosemary is often used to help treat indigestion. According to modern research the aroma from rosemary can improve concentration, performance, speed, and accuracy and even enhance positive moods. Rosemary essential oil can be used in an essential oil burner /diffuser along with water (use a few drops to about 20 ml water) and allow the aroma to circulate intermittently for a few hours a day.

In Ayurveda Rosemary is called Rusmari and is considered  best for vata and kapha dosha but can be helpful with pitta dosha imbalance. It is pungent, bitter and astringent with the qualities of being hot, and clear.

The essential oil, according to modern Ayurveda research has been also found to have the following benefits:

• Improves skin tone and reduces wrinkles due to its antioxidant properties; 
• Enhances hair growth through massaging the head with the oil in a base oil like jojoba or almond oil
• Improves memory and concentration
• Decreases depression, fear and fatigue through using the oil in an essential oil burner 
• Reduces inflammation of the joints
• Reduces gas by adding to gaseous forming foods like cabbage, cauliflower and potatoes.

Please note that the essential oil should not be used directly on the skin or hair but can be applied via a base oil like almond or jojoba or apricot. You can mix around 10 drops in about 100 ml base oil. Check skin sensitivity on a small patch of your head and skin and leave for a few hours before applying. Furthermore, if you intend to use  Rosemary essential oil, ensure it is pure as there is a lot of adulteration these days.

Renu Gulati

Ms Gulati is a wellness professional based in Rishikesh and has an MSc in Ayurveda Medicine