What is Rosemary Essential Oil?
Also known as Rosmarinus officinalis, this essential oil is steam-distilled from the needle-like leaves of an evergreen that belongs to the family of plants that include: mint; lemon
balm; salvia; marjoram and oregano. This tree is known to reach up to 49.2 feet and can live up to twenty years. Rosemary is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region of the world where its name is said to derive from the Latin, ros maris, which loosely translates to sea dew.
What Does Rosemary Essential Oil Smell Like?
Nothing else smells quite like rosemary essential oil. Pungent, aromatic and woody, the oil retains just the hint of the forest
and balsamic aspects. It is often described as grounding, minty, herbaceous and highly aromatic, with a fragile balance of woody and floral facets. Rosemary essential oil is both sweet and spicy at the same, combining the mingled scents of the great outdoors.
Historical Aspects
The first mention of rosemary essential oil dates back to 5000 BCE where cuneiform stone tablets record its presence. Egyptians were known to use it for embalming as far back as 3500 BCE. Considered sacred by the ancient Greeks, Hebrews, and Romans well, rosemary essential oil was symbolic of the life and death cycle of man. It was an ingredient in incense and thought to improve memory and mental clarity.
Use of Rosemary Essential Oil In Perfumery
Rosemary essential oil is frequently used as a base note where it adds depth and complexity in many fragrance formulations. Its distinctive scent and energizing character blends well with spicy, green basil, dry, balsamic cedar wood, fresh, clean lemon, succulent orange, invigorating peppermint
and light, bitter bergamot. It is a pleasant, tenacious and bitter sweet note. Earthy and bold, rosemary essential oil is high energy, and its addition to any fragrance increases its intensity and duration.
Other Uses Of Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary essential oil is well known in the food industry and considered a precious flavoring, especially in Mediterranean dishes. The chemical properties found in rosemary essential oil, particularly mono-terpenes, make it ideal as both a pest repellent and mood enhancer. In aromatherapy practice, it is known to stimulate and improve memory, concentration and to reduce levels of stress. It is also a favorite ingredient found in artisan soaps and candles.
Is Rosemary Oil Safe For Use Around Pets?
It is possible that diffusing rosemary oil around dogs could help improve their energy levels. According to the ASPCA, rosemary is non toxic, but a vet should always be consulted before using any essential oil near a beloved pet.
