Rosemary
Rosemary, known as Rujamari in Ayurveda, is an aromatic medicinal plant. It is famous for its essential oil that is widely used in the manufacturing of soaps and perfumes. Besides this, it also has ornamental and culinary value.
Rosemary oil is beneficial for skin as it prevents wrinkles and signs of aging due to its antioxidant property. It also promotes hair regrowth in males by improving the circulation of blood in the scalp. You can also use Rosemary oil for massaging your joints as it possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
Rosemary helps in boosting memory by improving the signal transmission in the brain. Drinking Rosemary tea and massaging forehead with Rosemary oil relaxes the brain and relieves headaches. You can also inhale Rosemary essential oil to manage stress and depression.
You should avoid the excessive use of Rosemary as it might cause certain side effects like vomiting, uterine bleeding, skin redness, or irritation[1-3][23].
Rosemary oil is beneficial for skin as it prevents wrinkles and signs of aging due to its antioxidant property. It also promotes hair regrowth in males by improving the circulation of blood in the scalp. You can also use Rosemary oil for massaging your joints as it possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
Rosemary helps in boosting memory by improving the signal transmission in the brain. Drinking Rosemary tea and massaging forehead with Rosemary oil relaxes the brain and relieves headaches. You can also inhale Rosemary essential oil to manage stress and depression.
You should avoid the excessive use of Rosemary as it might cause certain side effects like vomiting, uterine bleeding, skin redness, or irritation[1-3][23].
What are the synonyms of Rosemary?
Rosmarinus officinalis.
What is the source of Rosemary?
Plant Based
Benefits of Rosemary
Modern Science View
Rosemary might help improve memory due to its memory-enhancing properties. It increases the amount of certain compounds in the brain that improve functions like memory and cognition. Rosemary tea is rich in antioxidants that protect the brain (neuronal) cells against damage caused by free radicals, thus, its regular consumption might help in preventing further memory loss[9][10]11].
Tip to use Rosemary to improve Memory
a. Take 3-5 gm of dried or fresh Rosemary leaves.
b. Add 1-2 cup of water to it.
c. Boil the herb for 5-10 minutes so as to prepare Rosemary tea.
d. Strain the leaves and have it twice a day or as directed by a physician.
e. Consume regularly to improve Memory.
f. You can add stevia as a natural sweetener if required.
Tip to use Rosemary to improve Memory
a. Take 3-5 gm of dried or fresh Rosemary leaves.
b. Add 1-2 cup of water to it.
c. Boil the herb for 5-10 minutes so as to prepare Rosemary tea.
d. Strain the leaves and have it twice a day or as directed by a physician.
e. Consume regularly to improve Memory.
f. You can add stevia as a natural sweetener if required.
Modern Science View
Rosemary might help prevent Age-related mental decline or loss as it has antioxidant properties. It protects the brain (neuronal) cells against damage caused by free radicals and increases the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that are involved in enhancing cognition[9].
Tip to take Rosemary to prevent Age-related mental decline
a. Take 1 Rosemary capsule or as directed by a physician.
b. Swallow it with water after taking light food twice a day.
c. Take it on a regular basis to prevent Age-related mental decline.
Tip to take Rosemary to prevent Age-related mental decline
a. Take 1 Rosemary capsule or as directed by a physician.
b. Swallow it with water after taking light food twice a day.
c. Take it on a regular basis to prevent Age-related mental decline.
Modern Science View
Rosemary might help prevent Diabetic kidney damage also known as diabetic nephropathy which is commonly seen in diabetic patients. Rosemary contains certain constituents that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These antioxidants protect the kidney cells against damage caused by free radicals and helps reduce inflammation thus preventing kidney damage[13][14].
Modern Science View
Rosemary might help in managing Hypotension as it has antihypotensive property. It contains certain constituents that decrease the contractility of blood vessels and increases blood pressure[15].
Modern Science View
Rosemary might be useful in opioid withdrawal symptoms. Studies suggest that Rosemary helps in managing opioid withdrawal symptoms like muscle jerks, convulsions and musculoskeletal pain (pain in bones, muscles, ligaments etc.) due to its anti-inflammatory and
Psycho-stimulant (agents that improve physical and mental functions) properties[16][17].
Psycho-stimulant (agents that improve physical and mental functions) properties[16][17].
Modern Science View
Rosemary oil might be useful in managing Gas (flatulence) as it has carminative property. It prevents the formation of gas as well as helps in expulsion of excessive gas from the gastrointestinal tract, thereby relieving flatulence[14][18][19].
Modern Science View
Rosemary might help in managing Headache (including migraine headaches) as it helps to reduce the dilation (enlargement) of blood vessels which is the main reason for headaches. Drinking Rosemary infusion helps to relax the brain and relieves headache[14][20].
Tip to use Rosemary to get relief from Headache -
a. Take some fresh Rosemary leaves in a cup.
b. Add hot water over it.
c. Cover it with a lid and wait for 10-15 minutes.
d. Enjoy the hot Rosemary infusion to get relief from Headache.
Tip to use Rosemary to get relief from Headache -
a. Take some fresh Rosemary leaves in a cup.
b. Add hot water over it.
c. Cover it with a lid and wait for 10-15 minutes.
d. Enjoy the hot Rosemary infusion to get relief from Headache.
Modern Science View
Rosemary might be good for getting relief from Indigestion as it has digestive property. It improves food absorption by stimulating digestion and thus manages indigestion[22][23].
Modern Science View
Rosemary might help in Increasing menstrual flow as it stimulates uterine contractions. The increased contractions cause an increase in uterine blood flow. It also helps to relax the smooth muscles and relieve menstrual cramps[2][21][22].
How effective is Rosemary?
Likely effective
Cognitive enhancer
Insufficient evidence
Age related memory loss, Diabetic kidney disease, Flatulence (gas formation), Headache, Heavy menstrual bleeding, Indigestion, Low blood pressure, Opioid withdrawal
FAQs about Rosemary benefits
Precautions when using Rosemary
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
It is advised to always dilute Rosemary oil for internal use. Rosemary oil when used in undiluted form might cause gastroenteritis, spasms, vomiting and irritation to the kidneys. Therefore, it is advised to always check the strength of Rosemary oil before using it[2][3].
Allergy
Modern Science View
Rosemary should not be taken along with Aspirin as it contains the same chemical component “salicylate” as Aspirin and might cause complications in people who are allergic to Aspirin[2].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Little is known about the effect of Rosemary on infants, however, it is recommended to avoid its use in uncontrolled amounts during Breastfeeding as it might cause gastroenteritis, spasms, vomiting and irritation to the kidneys[3].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Use of Rosemary during Pregnancy is not recommended as its use might cause gastric problems like spasms, vomiting, uterine bleeding or even miscarriage. However, aromatherapy using Rosemary oil helps to relieve stress in Pregnant women. Also, women who are trying to get pregnant should avoid using Rosemary as it has the potential to alter hormones[2][3][4][8].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
Overdose of Rosemary might cause side effects like:
1. Vomiting
2. Gastroenteritis
3. Kidney irritation
4. Uterine bleeding[3].
Also taking Rosemary in excess quantities has the potential to cause bleeding disorders[2].
1. Vomiting
2. Gastroenteritis
3. Kidney irritation
4. Uterine bleeding[3].
Also taking Rosemary in excess quantities has the potential to cause bleeding disorders[2].
severe medicine interaction
Modern Science View
1. Rosemary has the potential to interact with Aspirin as both of them share the common active constituent “salicylate”. Their use together might lead to an overdose[2].
2. Rosemary might worsen seizures, therefore, it is recommended to avoid its use while taking anticonvulsant medication[2].
3. If you are taking antiplatelet or anticoagulant medication, then it is advisable to avoid the use of Rosemary as it might cause bleeding due to its antithrombotic activity[8].
2. Rosemary might worsen seizures, therefore, it is recommended to avoid its use while taking anticonvulsant medication[2].
3. If you are taking antiplatelet or anticoagulant medication, then it is advisable to avoid the use of Rosemary as it might cause bleeding due to its antithrombotic activity[8].
FAQs about Rosemary precautions
How to use Rosemary
1. Rosemary Tea
a. Take 3-5 gm of dried or fresh Rosemary leaves.
b. Add 1-2 cup of water to it.
c. Boil it for 5-10 minutes so as to prepare Rosemary tea.
Strain the leaves and have it twice a day or as directed by a physician.
d. Consume on a regular basis to help improve memory.
You can add stevia as a natural sweetener if required.
2. Rosemary Infusion
a. Take some fresh Rosemary leaves in a cup.
b. Add hot water over it.
c. Cover it with a lid and wait for 10-15 minutes.
Enjoy the hot Rosemary infusion to get relief from Headache.
3. Rosemary Capsule
a. Take 1 Rosemary capsule or as directed by a physician.
b. Swallow it with water after taking light meals twice a day to manage mental stress.
4. Fresh Rosemary in daily diet
a. Rosemary leaves can be chopped and added to your daily meals as garnishing or for flavouring.
b. Rosemary leaves can also be cooked or roasted along with food.
a. Take 3-5 gm of dried or fresh Rosemary leaves.
b. Add 1-2 cup of water to it.
c. Boil it for 5-10 minutes so as to prepare Rosemary tea.
Strain the leaves and have it twice a day or as directed by a physician.
d. Consume on a regular basis to help improve memory.
You can add stevia as a natural sweetener if required.
2. Rosemary Infusion
a. Take some fresh Rosemary leaves in a cup.
b. Add hot water over it.
c. Cover it with a lid and wait for 10-15 minutes.
Enjoy the hot Rosemary infusion to get relief from Headache.
3. Rosemary Capsule
a. Take 1 Rosemary capsule or as directed by a physician.
b. Swallow it with water after taking light meals twice a day to manage mental stress.
4. Fresh Rosemary in daily diet
a. Rosemary leaves can be chopped and added to your daily meals as garnishing or for flavouring.
b. Rosemary leaves can also be cooked or roasted along with food.
Benefits of Rosemary
Modern Science View
Rosemary might help in managing Headache (including migraine headaches) as it helps to reduce the dilation (enlargement) of blood vessels which is the main reason for headaches. Massaging the forehead with Rosemary oil relaxes the brain and relieves headache[14][20].
Modern Science View
Rosemary essential oil can be used in aromatherapy to help provide relief from mental tiredness and fatigue. It acts as a nervine and brain tonic which stimulates the activity of brain and improves its functions[7][15].
Modern Science View
Rosemary has been used as an ingredient in toothpaste as it might help in gum diseases such as Gingivitis due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It inhibits the activity of oral bacteria and reduces the inflammation of gums[24].
Modern Science View
Rosemary oil might be useful in managing Stress due to its antistress property. Inhaling Rosemary essential oil lowers the level of cortisol (stress hormone) and increases the level of a neurotransmitter (dopamine). This ultimately helps lower stress levels and is vital for mental wellbeing[25].
Modern Science View
Rosemary might help in Arthritis as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Rosemary oil can be used for massage or can be added to hot compresses or baths. It inhibits the mediators responsible for causing inflammation thereby managing the symptoms related to inflammation in the case of Arthritis[7][26][27].
Tip to use Rosemary to manage the symptoms of Arthritis
a. Take a few drops of Rosemary oil (or as per your requirement).
b. Add 1 drop of Olive oil or mustard oil to it.
c. Massage the inflamed painful areas with this mixture before sleeping for about 10-15 minutes to get relief from the symptoms of Arthritis such as inflammation.
Tip to use Rosemary to manage the symptoms of Arthritis
a. Take a few drops of Rosemary oil (or as per your requirement).
b. Add 1 drop of Olive oil or mustard oil to it.
c. Massage the inflamed painful areas with this mixture before sleeping for about 10-15 minutes to get relief from the symptoms of Arthritis such as inflammation.
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Rosemary in Patchy hair loss, the topical application of Rosemary oil on the scalp might promote hair regrowth by improving blood circulation in the scalp area[2][28].
Tip to use Rosemary to promote Hair growth
a. Take a few drops of Rosemary oil.
b. Mix it with a few drops of coconut oil.
c. Apply it evenly on the scalp once or twice a week to help promote hair loss.
Tip to use Rosemary to promote Hair growth
a. Take a few drops of Rosemary oil.
b. Mix it with a few drops of coconut oil.
c. Apply it evenly on the scalp once or twice a week to help promote hair loss.
How effective is Rosemary?
Likely effective
Headache
Insufficient evidence
Arthritis, Fatigue, Hair loss, Inflammation of gums, Stress
Precautions when using Rosemary
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
It is always advised to dilute the Rosemary oil for external application. Topical application of undiluted Rosemary oil might cause allergy, skin redness or sensitivity to the sun. Therefore, it is advised to check the strength of Rosemary oil before using externally[2].
Allergy
Modern Science View
Rosemary might cause contact dermatitis when used for topical application[5].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the external use of Rosemary during breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended for lactating mothers to avoid or consult a physician before using Rosemary[2].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the external use of Rosemary during pregnancy. Therefore, it is recommended for pregnant women to avoid or consult a physician before using Rosemary[2].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Skin allergy
2. Skin redness or sensitivity to the sun.
2. Skin redness or sensitivity to the sun.
How to use Rosemary
Rose Essential Oil
1. Mental tiredness
a. Use Rosemary oil in a diffuser to spread its aroma in the room to ease inhalation. It can also be inhaled directly through the bottle to improve memory, get relief from mental tiredness or to manage any nervous disorder.
2. Arthritis
a. Take a few drops of Rosemary oil (or as per your requirement).
b. Add 1 teaspoon of Olive oil or Mustard oil.
c. Massage the affected areas with this mixture before sleeping for about 10-15 minutes.
d. Repeat on a regular basis to get relief from the symptoms of arthritis.
3. Patchy Hair Loss
a. Take a few drops of Rosemary oil.
b. Mix a few drops of coconut oil in it.
c. Apply it evenly on the scalp once or twice a week to help manage hair loss problems.
1. Mental tiredness
a. Use Rosemary oil in a diffuser to spread its aroma in the room to ease inhalation. It can also be inhaled directly through the bottle to improve memory, get relief from mental tiredness or to manage any nervous disorder.
2. Arthritis
a. Take a few drops of Rosemary oil (or as per your requirement).
b. Add 1 teaspoon of Olive oil or Mustard oil.
c. Massage the affected areas with this mixture before sleeping for about 10-15 minutes.
d. Repeat on a regular basis to get relief from the symptoms of arthritis.
3. Patchy Hair Loss
a. Take a few drops of Rosemary oil.
b. Mix a few drops of coconut oil in it.
c. Apply it evenly on the scalp once or twice a week to help manage hair loss problems.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, Rosemary might be helpful in managing weight as it possesses anti-obesity property. It works by inhibiting lipid absorption in the intestines as well as the formation of adipocytes or fat cells in the body thus promoting weight loss[6].
Tip to use Rosemary to help manage weight
a. Take 1 teaspoon of dried Rosemary leaves in a pan.
b. Add 1 cup of water to it.
c. Let it simmer for some time to prepare Rosemary tea.
d. You can add honey as a sweetener if required.
Tip to use Rosemary to help manage weight
a. Take 1 teaspoon of dried Rosemary leaves in a pan.
b. Add 1 cup of water to it.
c. Let it simmer for some time to prepare Rosemary tea.
d. You can add honey as a sweetener if required.
Modern Science View
Yes, Rosemary is antidepressant in nature. It has the potential to improve the concentration of brain neurotransmitters responsible for enhancing mood in an individual[6].
Tip to use Rosemary to manage depression -
a. Put a few drops of Rosemary oil on a cotton cloth or tissue.
b. Bring it near your face or nose to inhale.
c. Inhale a few times to help elevate your mood.
Tip to use Rosemary to manage depression -
a. Put a few drops of Rosemary oil on a cotton cloth or tissue.
b. Bring it near your face or nose to inhale.
c. Inhale a few times to help elevate your mood.
Modern Science View
No, Rosemary does not cause gastric ulcers. In fact, Rosemary contains certain active compounds that have protective effects against peptic ulcers[7].
Modern Science View
Rosemary is generally considered safe when consumed in recommended doses. However, undiluted Rosemary oil or the use of large amounts of rosemary can cause vomiting, uterine bleeding, kidney irritation, increased sun sensitivity, skin redness and allergic reactions. It would be advised to do a patch test before applying Rosemary oil to the skin. Undiluted Rosemary oil can be toxic if ingested and therefore should be avoided[47].
Modern Science View
Rosemary should be used in limited quantities. Total daily intake should not exceed 4 to 6 grams of the dried herb. Direct oral intake of rosemary in any form is strictly not advised[47].
Modern Science View
Rosemary is not suggested to be used in children (under 18 years of age) for medicinal purposes. However, it is safe to be used as a spice in food[47].
Modern Science View
Rosemary can be used in various forms. It is available as
Dried whole herb
Dried, powdered extract (in capsules)
Preparations made from fresh or dried leaves, such as alcohol tinctures, teas, and liquid extract
Volatile oil (to be used externally, not orally)[47].
Dried whole herb
Dried, powdered extract (in capsules)
Preparations made from fresh or dried leaves, such as alcohol tinctures, teas, and liquid extract
Volatile oil (to be used externally, not orally)[47].
Modern Science View
Yes, Rosemary might be beneficial in hair loss. It works by improving blood circulation to the scalp that further helps in the growth of hair[8].
Modern Science View
No, Rosemary does not cause iron deficiency. However, it reduces the absorption of iron. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid Rosemary if you are iron deficient or taking any iron supplements[8].
References
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.