2019 is in full swing now and there’s no turning back. There are a lot of things going on and March has me thinking I’ve already lost all my marbles. Please don’t tell me I am the only one?
But allow me to officially introduce to you March’s Essential Oil of the Month; Rosmarinus officinalis leaf oil or otherwise known as Rosemary leaf oil. Yes, rosemary, as in the herb that is probably most well-known for its abilities to create the most delicious roasted veg on earth (thanks Jamie Oliver). However, you will be surprised to know that there is an extensive list of incredible health and skin care benefits associated with rosemary leaf oil.
The rich history of rosemary extends back to ancient Roman and Greek times where it was considered a sacred plant. And in the middle ages, it was used to ward off evil spirits, as protection against the plague and worn by brides and grooms as wedding love charms. The colourful history of rosemary is steeped in folklore. It is believed that where rosemary grows, the woman rules. Apparently, rosemary would only flourish on a garden where the lady of the house ruled the roost. Rosemary is the symbol of honour and memory when used at funerals. In Shakespeare’s famous play, Hamlet, Ophelia says, “There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance; pray you, love, remember.” The play relies on the audience’s knowledge of flowers to portray messages that might hold hidden meanings of dramatic irony.
A recent study done by Northumbria University found that students (or adults) working in a room with the aroma of rosemary, in the forms of an essential oil, achieved 5% to 7% better results in memory tests. Dr Moss, who executed the research, said that the study supports traditional beliefs about rosemary. Turns out the link between rosemary and remembrance might not actually be as la-di-da as you thought.
Rosemary essential oil is extracted from the leaves and flowering tops of the woody, evergreen plant. The anti-inflammatory properties of rosemary leaf oil reduce inflammation and redness associated with eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. It is a natural astringent agent that helps to control oil levels in the skin. The high concentration of antioxidants in rosemary leaf oil reduce the appearance of fine lines, pigmentation and wrinkles.
In aromatherapy, rosemary essential oil is used to ease chronic stress by enhancing free radical scavenging activity and thereby reducing cortisol levels. It also boosts your mood and increases circulation.
The numerous benefits of rosemary have made it this month’s top essential oil. The cold and rainy weather supports the use of the fragrant herb in your cooking. And its ability to improve one’s memory will (fingers crossed) help us all remember the things we need to do today.
Incorporate rosemary into your life by using our Polishing Face Scrub to clear your skin. Or apply a few drops of the Le Riche Naturals Cape Mountain Youth Elixir after cleansing with the Luxe Oil Cleanser and gently massage it into your skin, concentrating on areas with wrinkles or sagging skin in the face, neck and décolletage area. Rub a few drops of the essential oil behind your (or your kids’) ears to boost alertness and cognitive function. Add a few sprigs of rosemary to your weekly DIY dining room table flower arrangement. And most definitely use it in your cooking to cleanse your liver and invigorate your senses. Rosemary really is more than just an aromatic herb.