Dr. Sujit PaulRosemary, a fragrant herb commonly used to flavour food, is finding renewed attention for its potential role in supporting memory, focus and overall brain health. The interest comes from both traditional use and emerging scientific research, although the evidence is still developing and rosemary should not be viewed as a substitute for medical treatment.The Ministry of Ayush promotes research and evidence-based information around traditional systems of medicine through its Ayush Research Portal, which brings together research data from Ayurveda and other AYUSH systems.
A herb with a long memory of its own
The advantages of rosemary aren’t confined to the mind; it is among the most cited natural ingredients for hair health. Enhancing circulation to the hair follicles with rosemary oil can have beneficial long-term effects on hair growth. It is also studied for potential benefits for pattern hair thinning (also called androgenetic alopecia) and may influence DHT, a hormone associated with pattern hair thinning in females and males.Scalp massage with rosemary oil is a much-loved ritual undertaken in numerous households around the globe, not only for the potential benefits on the hair, but also for the calming effect of the massage itself and the gentle scent of rosemary. As part of the small list of sustainable self-care habits, it’s one of rosemary’s dual superpowers: good for the mind, good for the hair. Just be aware, though, that while rosemary oil can help with early hair thinning and health, it can’t transform your balding. Any improvement in hair cover is likely to require months of continuous use.
How rosemary may support everyday focus
Perhaps it’s not really a treatment for a diagnosed condition; it may simply be something we use to maintain our normal mental acuity for everyday functioning through a busy day for most of us. Many people like the aroma of rosemary essential oil and find it awakening, helping them relieve mental fatigue. According to Ayurvedic wellness practices, deep breathing in rosemary oil or a massage of the head (Shiroabhyanga) with rosemary is said to relax the nervous system, which indirectly helps to focus and stabilise the mind. Another easy and simple way to get your dose of rosemary is by adding up to a cup of rosemary tea to your daily or morning routine; many people use it as a midday tea to help keep them awake naturally without the jittery side effect of too much caffeine. Some find a soothing feeling and relief from stress headaches after massaging a concentration of rosemary oil diluted in carrier oil onto the temples or forehead.
Bringing rosemary into your daily routine
Rosemary is a very simple-minded, beautiful herb. No need for a complex routine; consistency will suffice to enjoy a glass of rosemary tea in the morning, a small bottle of diluted rosemary oil for a relaxing massage at the temple during a hectic afternoon, a weekly hair care routine with rosemary oil, or just a few drops of essential oil in a diffuser while studying or working for a light boost of mental clarity. With any herbal medicine, try using very little, particularly essential oils, which should always be diluted prior to application to skin or scalp. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and people taking any medication should consult with a healthcare professional before adding rosemary to their diet.
The takeaway
The historical role of rosemary as a study aid can’t be just a myth; the antioxidant and neuroprotective characteristics of rosemary have generated scientific research and received growing interest in recent years as an ingredient in modern wellness products. This simple herb can be used to help to focus during an extended workday or add some youthful vitality to your hair care regimen – it is an ancient remedy.
