Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) is an aromatic in the mint family that grows as a small evergreen bush, native to the Mediterranean. Its emotional and physical healing properties have been utilized by many cultures around the world for ages. It was known by the ancients to bring about a stronger sense of self-confidence and to strengthen the memory and awareness. Due to its aid in remembrance and its resonance with the heart, it became the emblem of fidelity for lovers. Not only was it traditionally used at weddings, but also at funerals to remember loved ones in the afterlife, for decking churches and banqueting halls at festivals, as incense in religious ceremonies, and in magical spells.
Rosemary Oil was first distilled 800 years ago and is one of the most stimulating essential oils used in aromatherapy today. It’s scent is known to energize the qi of the Heart and stimulate healthy blood circulation. This herb is ruled by the Sun; the celestial body associated with the heart in astrology and many forms of alternative medicine; giving it the power to renew enthusiasm, feed self-confidence, inspire love of self and others, and strengthen will-power.
A compound in Rosemary, carnosic acid, has been found to simulate nerve growth; this is a protein vital for the growth and maintenance of nerve tissue. This means that rosemary helps build and repair the nervous system so that going forward, we’re better able to handle stressful situations. Breathing in the fumes of Rosemary has also been found to lower cortisol levels (high cortisol levels are associated with stress). Elevated cortisol kicks in our “fight or flight” response, so by reducing our cortisol levels with the aid of Rosemary, we’re able to move into relaxation mode by the activation of our parasympathetic nervous system, opening our hearts and eventually letting down our guard.
Rosemary also acts as a potent brain stimulant and has a long history of improving the memory, relieving mental fatigue, and aiding psychic protection and intuition. Recent scientific studies have proven its amazing ability to enhance memory; something the ancients have known for thousands of years. The findings of these studies suggest that rosemary may enhance the ability to remember events and to remember to complete tasks at particular times in the future. 
Ancient Greek philosophers would place a fresh sprig of Rosemary behind their ear when delving into deep study to ensure the knowledge they sought would take hold in their memory.
Reinforcing the energies of the Heart and empowering the Mind, Rosemary enhances the spiritual dedication of love rather than the experience of romantic ecstasy. And as an herb of remembrance, it helps not only to recall loved ones but to remember one’s own true path. This powerful herb helps to lower stress levels while granting the energy and clear head to tackle whatever it is that’s stressing us out. Rosemary’s many healing powers work together to ultimately aid in the opening of our hearts, guiding us into a relaxed place of love and compassion.
Article by Evan Sylliaasen
Evan Sylliaasen is the founder of the Northwest School of Aromatic Medicine and Higher Mind Incense. For the past decade his incense company has been a leader in sustainability and conscious sourcing of aromatic plants. As the head instructor of his online school, he teaches aromatherapists, incense lovers, herbalists, and spiritually-minded folks the traditional art of incense crafting, incense as medicine, and the art of wild-harvesting aromatic plants responsibly.
Evan lives with his family in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains of Washington state. He channels his creative passions through writing, photography, wood working, craftsman building, and music. When he’s not working, he’s out in the garden, forest and fields, walking along rivers, beaches, or in the mountains breathing deeply.
© 2016-2021 Evan Sylliaasen, The Northwest School of Aromatic Medicine. All Rights Reserved.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
