Cineole, camphor or verbenone: which rosemary essential oil should I choose?

Hair growth, antiparasitic and antibacterial effects ... Rosemary essential oil has many benefits.

Whether you want to take care of your immunity, your body, or your mind, this essence is a perfect natural partner.

However, there are as many uses as there are different types of rosemary. Let’s take a closer look at the 3 chemotypes of rosemary essential oil, from their characteristics to their recommended applications.

Rosemary Essential Oil with Cineole

Rosemary essential oil with cineole, or Rosmarinus officinalis cineoliferum, is the most common rosemary EO. Full of eucalyptol, a component known for its antibacterial properties, it has a pungent, energizing scent, evergreen pine-like, both herbal and astringent. An aroma like no other, perfect to add flavor to a dish.

What are the uses for Rosemary EO with Cineole?

Rosemary EO with cineole is appreciated for its suitability for both oral and topical use. The essence has several assets: it can be a culinary aid, a cosmetic component, or bring natural support during rigorous winters.

Enhancing Dishes with Rosemary EO

Particularly suitable for oral use, rosemary essential oil is the ally of cooks eager for dishes with a warm and sunny accent. 1 to 2 drops of rosemary EO with cineole are perfect for enhancing a meat dish, grilled vegetables, or a sauce.

Relieving Respiratory Tract

This EO is also considered helpful in case of chest congestion: drop some of it in your diffuser to prevent a cold, or use it in your inhalation to support your body.

If you have a sore throat or a cold, drop 1 to 2 drops on a teaspoon of honey or in a hot beverage.

Rosemary EO for Hair Growth

This essence can also be used for cosmetic purposes. Rosemary essential oil with cineole stimulates hair growth. One to two drops of rosemary EO with cineole mixed with a neutral oil (suitable for use on the skin) make a wonderful blend to massage your scalp.

Rosemary Essential Oil with Verbenone

As the name suggests, rosemary essential oil with verbenone, or Rosmarinus officinalis verbenoniferum, contains a monoterpene, verbenone, in high concentrations (15 to 30%). This gives it a pleasant aroma, commonly used in perfumery.

Rosemary essential oil with verbenone is renowned for its protective effect against bacteria and viruses. It is also known for its balancing effects on the nervous system: use it to regain mental clarity and feel relaxed.

How to Use Rosemary EO with Verbenone?

This essential oil is particularly appreciated when vaporized. Not only does it perfume the air with a delicious fragrance, but it also helps you calm down and focus.

You can also pour a tiny amount into your bath (one to two drops, always diluted in a neutral oil) at the end of the day. Mixed in with steam, it’ll help you let go of your daily worries and unwind after a long day.

Mucolytic Properties

If you’re congested, this oil offers unique support for fast recovery. Add a drop of rosemary EO to a bowl of hot water and treat yourself to a particularly effective steam inhalation.

Rosemary Essential Oil with Camphor

Rosemary essential oil with camphor, or Rosmarinus officinalis camphoriferum, can be used both orally and topically. Because of its high proportion of camphor, it has several benefits. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a natural remedy for heavy legs or sore muscles, or if you seek its soothing effects.

How to Use Rosemary EO with Camphor?

Rosemary EO with camphor can be safely applied to the skin for a good massage. As always, never use it alone: mix a few drops with a neutral oil, such as sweet almond oil.

Rosemary EO with Camphor for Muscle Discomfort

Endowed with soothing properties, this EO helps relieve the unpleasant sensation of tense or sore muscles. Its anti-inflammatory properties will reduce recovery time after a hard workout. Use it for a deep, relieving massage by blending it with your favorite body oil.

Rosemary EO with Camphor for Heavy Legs

With a slight hypertensive effect, this type of rosemary oil helps stimulate blood or lymphatic circulation. If you suffer from heavy legs or water retention, use it in a decongestant massage. It’s also recommended for painful periods.

Contraindications of Rosemary Essential Oils

Rosemary essential oils are contraindicated for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and children under the age of 6. Rosemary essential oil with camphor is also not recommended for people prone to seizures and epilepsy. Additionally, rosemary essential oil with camphor is contraindicated for people suffering from hormonal cancer.

Each Essential Oil has Its Specific Benefits

Although these three rosemary essential oils share some characteristics, their biochemical compositions give them very different properties. Depending on your needs, you can choose the essence that best suits you.

While rosemary EO concentrated in cineole offers versatile applications, rosemary EO with verbenone is ideal for mental clarity or respiratory relief. On the other hand, rosemary EO with camphor provides support for muscle recovery and relief from heavy legs.

However, if you are unsure about how to use essential oils or experience irritation, immediately stop using them and consult a healthcare professional.