Rosemary essential oil is an essential part of any aromatherapy enthusiasts arsenal.It has may properties that make it a multi purpose oil, but it is often neglected in favour of the more popular lavender oil.

Antiseptic

Rosemary oil has well known antiseptic properties that mean it can used on minor wounds to remove the chances of infection. in the garden this property can be utilized directly by crushing the leaves and placing them onto the wound after rinsing it.

The oil itself can be used in home made antiseptic oil blends.

Hair and skin care

I make a special acne blend for my daughter containing Rosemary and lemon essential oils in an evening Primrose carrier oil. She much prefers this to Tea tree oil.

Rosemary has a long history of being used in hair rinses to increase the natural shine. It can also be added to witchahzel to make a face toner, that many people will prefer to the traditional rose water.

Insect repellent

Rosemary oil makes an excellent insect repellent. Sprinkled in doorways it will help keep flies out of the house. It can be blended into aromatherapy candles to use in preference to citronella. Fresh sprigs of Rosemary make an excellent fly repellent when placed on a barbecue, as well as a delicious scent in the air.

Instead of buying Rosemary essential oil you could grow it in your garden so you can use fresh sprigs in your cooking or on the barbecue. I keep a pot by the back door so I can reach it easily when I need it, and to keep the flies out.

It grows best in a container in most areas, so you can keep it warm in winter by moving it indoors.