Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, belongs to the Labiatae or Lamiaceae family of plants, which also includes mint, lemon balm, salvia, marjoram, and oregano.

Rosemary is a potent source of plant compounds that offer a variety of health benefits. Fresh and dried rosemary is commonly used in the culinary world, but the plant, including its extracts and oils, have therapeutic uses, too.

Here’s everything you need to know about rosemary oil, including its potential health benefits, risks, and safety.

Benefits of Rosemary Oil 

Rosemary contains a number of powerful substances, including carnosic acid, carnosol, and rosmarinic acid, which offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects.

Fresh and dried rosemary is used in cooking as a flavoring agent and the plant is also used to make products such as rosemary extract, rosemary powder, and rosemary oil.

Rosemary oil differs from rosemary extract, as they contain different compounds in varying concentrations. Rosemary extract supplements can be taken orally, while rosemary oil is applied topically or inhaled as aromatherapy.

Applying rosemary oil to your skin and hair and inhaling it as aromatherapy may offer a few health benefits.