Rosemary isn't just for culinary geniuses anymore!

You may have noticed an increase in skin and hair care products that incorporate this lovely little Mediterranean native of the mint family, and it's for good reason.  Rosemary has long been touted for its aromatherapeutic properties and has traditionally been used in tea, candles, incense... and pure rosemary essential oil is a major best seller in health-oriented grocery stores like Trader Joe's and Whole Foods.

So let's investigate why!

Research has shown that rosemary has powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties which make it an ideal ingredient for skin care products.  You'll likely find rosemary (listed primarily as rosmarinus officinalis) in acne treatments for these properties.  The anti-inflammatory aspects help to calm the redness and swelling associated with breakouts, and the anti-microbial aspects help kill off the acne-causing bacteria in order to prevent breakouts in the future.

But that's not all rosemary can do for your skin!  You may find this handy ingredient popping up in anti-aging products as well.  Rosemary has been shown to boost collagen production which helps your skin look plumper and more youthful while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles... but it's also been shown to moisturize the skin very effectively.

The benefits aren't just limited to skin, either.  Rosemary has been showing up in quite a few hair care products as well though not as extensively as in the skin care world.  Studies have shown that rosemary helps stimulate the hair follicles to encourage hair growth and increase circulation to the scalp.  You'll likely find rosemary in shampoo designed for volume or clarifying.

Rosemary boasts other fantastic properties that make it ideal in treatments for headaches, colds, respiratory issues, and more!