How Rosemary Oil Benefits Health

Increases Circulation

Numerous medical conditions and medications may cause reduced circulation (blood flow). Poor circulation can result in cold hands and feet, swelling in the lower limbs, numbness or tingling in the extremities, changes in the skin color of the affected area, and pain or cramping in the muscles and joints. Research suggests rosemary oil increases circulation by expanding the size of the blood vessels, allowing blood to reach the hands and feet more easily. The oil may be especially beneficial for patients who have Raynaud's disease, a condition that constricts blood vessels in the hands and feet. A case study led by Dr. Von Schoen-Angerer followed a patient with this condition who experienced cold hands and feet. For the purposes of the study, the patient applied both olive oil and rosemary oil to the affected areas. While the olive oil had no impact, the patient reported their hands and feet felt warmer when using the rosemary oil. Thermal imaging tests confirmed rosemary oil did indeed result in increased circulation to the patient's extremities.

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May Reduce Stress

Several studies have suggested rosemary oil may reduce stress, which can cause the heart rate to be temporarily elevated. A study of nursing students taking particularly stressful academic exams measured their pulse rates before and during these exams. Some of the students were asked to inhale rosemary oil through an inhaler for the study, and the control group was not given any oil. The results showed the students who had inhaled rosemary oil experienced a nine percent decrease in their pulse, and the students in the control group had no decrease. In addition to an increased pulse rate, stress can also cause elevated cortisol levels. A study of twenty-two adults showed those who inhaled rosemary oil for five minutes experienced a twenty-three percent reduction in cortisol. The control group inhaled a neutral oil, and no reduction in cortisol levels was demonstrated. Additional studies have shown rosemary oil may help improve mood and make patients feel more energetic.

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