Wild Rosemary (Rosemarinus officialis) - The popular rosemary plant is native to the Mediterranean region, however, it has been cultivated throughout the world. It is a wonderfully versatile plant, a symbol of friendship, loyalty and remembrance. In ancient times, it was a part of almost all feasts or festivals. Greek and Roman students often wore garlands of rosemary around their necks to support their learning effort. Rosemary flowers were associated with love and marriage. In the middle centuries, people burned rosemary in hospitals to purify the air and prevent the spread of infection. Philipus Aureolus Paracelsus, a 16th century German physician, graded rosemary as his most essential component in his medicine.

Rosemary oil may help overcome mental and physical fatigue, by stimulating circulation and supporting the central nervous system. It provides support in stressful situations and helps promote mental concentration. Its fragrance is often used in the meditation process.

Essential oils, in combination with a suitable face cream, may help tighten sagging skin. Rosemary is a very good oil to use to fight non-cystic acne or greasy hair (use it in your daily shampoo). It may also support the growth of healthy looking hair. Adding Rosemary to shampoo or shower soap can give you a feeling of alertness and help prepare you to jump right into a new day with optimistic and energizing thoughts.

 Rosemary oil belongs to a group of oils with properties that assist in relieving tired and aching muscles after hard work or exercise. Add essential oils into your favorite massage oil. Pamper cold feet and help circulation with a foot bath containing 10 drops of Rosemary oil.

For an energizing bath, mix 2 tbsp of mixing oil with 3 drops of Rosemary, 3 drops of lemon, and 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil, and pour it into a bathtub filled with warm water.

Rosemary oil is a supportive essential oil for the respiratory system. It may also help alleviate water retention, and can be used in conjunction with your weight-loss program.

 Those prone to asthma or epilepsy, or women who are pregnant, may be bothered by the strong, pungent rosemary scent.

Japanese researchers have preliminary evidence that rosemary improves memory, as Shakespeare's character says, "There's rosemary for remembrance."  It is also a stimulant to the nervous system that increases energy.  Rosemary aids in the assimilation of enzymes that break down food in the stomach and helps the lymphatic system eliminate waste from the body.  It also reduces the discomfort of nausea. 

In a massage oil, liniment, compress, or bath, the essential oil improves poor circulation and eases and penetrates muscle and rheumatic pain.  Rubbing a rosemary vapor balm on the chest relieves lung and sinus congestion.  Cosmetically, it encourages dry, mature skin to produce its own oil and also treats acne for those with dry skin.  It also helps get rid of canker sores and other viruses.  Add it to hair conditioners for dandruff and hair loss and to keep it healthy.