What Is Rosemary Pure Essential Oil Used For?

Rosemary is most known for its flavor in dishes and scent in the kitchen, but the essential oil also has medicinal uses. Although you can ingest the herb, rosemary essential oil is for topical use only. However, essential oils can cause allergic reactions when used topically so test diluted rosemary oil on a small area of skin before applying it. If you are pregnant, you should stay away from rosemary oil. Check with a certified aromatherapist for the proper method of using essential oils and clear it with your doctor before using rosemary essential oil to treat a condition.

Antibacterial and Antifungal

Rosemary, like many essential oils, has antibacterial and antifungal properties. A 2007 study in "Planta Medica" studied the effects of rosemary on the acne-causing bacteria Propionibacterium acnes. Researchers were able to kill this type of bacteria with rosemary. A 2008 study in "International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition" found that rosemary suppressed three types of fungi: Alternaria alternate, Botrytis cinerea and Fusarium oxysporum. To make a cleansing air spray with rosemary, add 50 to 100 drops of rosemary to 10 oz. of water.

Aches and Pains

Rosemary essential oil can help a number of aches and pains you might experience. In particular, it is used for sore muscles, bruises and arthritis, as well as for sprains and strains. Make a diluted massage oil with two drops of rosemary essential oil for every one tablespoon of carrier oil, such as grape-seed oil. Another option is to add a couple drops of rosemary to a bath.

Digestion

Rosemary soothes a number of digestive concerns, including indigestion and cramps. You can use rosemary tea made from the herb for these troubles, but do not ingest the essential oil. To use the oil, add two drops of rosemary to a carrier oil and rub the mixture around your navel area.

Hair and Skin

Rosemary is used in many blends for the skin and hair. Rosemary is an astringent for oily skin, and its antifungal and antibacterial properties make it effective for acne, eczema, athlete's foot and dermatitis. Make the massage oil in Step 3 for aches and pains to use on your skin or add two to three drops of rosemary to a lotion. For hair, rosemary is used for problems such as grease, dandruff, oily scalp and head lice. It can also encourage your hair to grow, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Add rosemary oil to your shampoo or put a few drops in a bath to receive these benefits.