rosemary oil

Rosemary oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves and flowering tops of the *Rosmarinus officinalis* plant. It contains active compounds such as rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, carnosol, ursolic acid, and betulinic acid that contribute to its pharmacological effects[5]. Rosemary oil exhibits anti-inflammatory activity primarily through inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B transcription and suppression of the arachidonic acid cascade[2]. Its antioxidant properties help prevent injury caused by reactive species during inflammation. The spasmolytic effect on gastrointestinal smooth muscle is attributed to antagonism of acetylcholine (with borneol as a key component), while alpha- and beta-pinenes show spasmogenic activity toward smooth muscle[2][8]. Rosemary oil has been studied for a variety of uses including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial (antibacterial/antifungal/antiviral), neuroprotective (memory enhancement), analgesic (pain relief), antidepressant-like effects via modulation of noradrenergic, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems in animal models[5], hair regrowth stimulation in alopecia areata[8], improvement in circulation when applied topically[3], menstrual flow stimulation[8], treatment for dyspepsia and hypertension (approved by German Commission E)[4], rheumatism relief[4][3], bronchial asthma support via 1,8-cineole content in small studies[2][4] and other traditional indications such as peptic ulcer or liver toxicity. Ingestion of large amounts can be toxic; topical use may cause skin irritation.

Brand names

Old Man

Other names

Rosmarinus officinaliscompass plantcompass weedpolar plantRosmarinus officinalis Linn