1/6 oz

Rosmarinus officinalis verbenone

Certified Organic

Aerial parts, Steam distilled, South Africa

Rosemary verbenone essential oil is highly regenerative to skin cells and used in many skin care products. It is specific for sinus infections and is effective at the onset of a cold or bronchitis to help break up mucous congestion. It is also considered balancing to the endocrine and nervous systems. This type of Rosemary is also supportive to healthy digestive function. Due to ketone content, Rosemary-verbenone should be used with caution for children under the age of 10 and by pregnant women. 

The fresh, balsamic, almost forest-like, and softly penetrating aroma of our organic Rosemary ct Verbenone is, in a word, beautiful! The beauty of its finely balanced aroma can be attributed in part to traces of volatile nitrogen compounds of high odor intensity, which occur in concentrations from less than one part per billion to the parts per million range.1 It is a true example of the potency of the kingdom of plants and their essences, and it is no wonder they elicit our grateful respect.

The designation of chemotypes (ct) of an essential oil is necessary when distinctly different chemical compositions of the same species are produced, and due to their different compositions, these oils can be applied to varying purposes.2 In the case of Rosemary chemotype (ct) Verbenone, this oil is an excellent addition to skincare formulas due to its regenerative qualities via stimulation of metabolic functions and circulation and the elimination of waste products.3 It is especially effective in formulas for bronchial conditions and colds, such as blocked sinuses, deep coughs, congested lungs, etc.4 Although its ketone content (verbenone) indicates neurotoxic effects, this particular Rosemary can be most safely used when inhaled or applied topically after appropriate dilution and when combined with other applicable essential oils.5

Rosemary is a well known herb native to the Mediterranean region, abundantly growing wild in Spain, France, Corsica, Italy, Sardinia, all states of the former Yugoslavia, Russia, Turkey, the Middle East, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and others.6 The odor character of Rosemary oil varies according to where the plants grow (the altitude and climate), what plant parts are distilled, and whether the plant material is fresh or dried when distilled.7 The plant was known to be sacred to the ancient Greeks and Romans who used it as a symbol of regeneration and employed its aromatic qualities in incense.8

Aromatic Profile: Gentle yet potent balsamic, somewhat camphoraceous aroma with softly penetrating aldehydic and peppery high notes; a very finely balanced rosemary aroma.

Appearance: Clear, transparent, mobile liquid.

Use: Aromatherapy, Natural Perfumery, Incense.

Blending Suggestions: Dilute and add drop by drop to your blends until the desired effect is achieved.

Blends Well With: Basil, Bergamot and other citrus oils, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Citronella, Elemi, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Grapefruit, Labdanum, Lavandin, Lavender, Lemongrass, Lime, Mandarin, Melissa, Myrtle, Orange, Oregano, Peppermint, Petitgrain, Tangerine, Thyme. “…finds extensive use in perfumery for citrus colognes, Lavender waters, fougères, pine needle fragrances, Oriental perfumes (blends excellently with olibanum [Frankincense] and spice oils!)…”9

Safety Considerations: Due to the presence of ketones (verbenone), we recommend avoiding use on children less than 10 years, people over the age of 60, epileptics, pregnant and/or nursing women, and those with liver or high blood pressure conditions.10,11 Dilute before using. A patch test should be performed before use for those with sensitive skin.

1 Schnaubelt, Kurt. Medical Aromatherapy – Healing with Essential Oils, 1999, pp. 170-1, citing Boelens, M.H. “Chemical & Sensory Evaluation of Trace Compound s in Naturals,” in Proceedings of the 13th International Congress of Flavors, Fragrances and Essential Oils, Istanbul, Turkey, Baser, K.H.C. (ed), 3, 177.

2 Schnaubelt, Kurt. Medical Aromatherapy – Healing with Essential Oils, 1999, p. 146.

3 Schnaubelt, Kurt. Advanced Aromatherapy – The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, 1995/1998, pp. 88, 116.

4 Schnaubelt, Kurt. Medical Aromatherapy – Healing with Essential Oils, 1999, p. 229.

5 Schnaubelt, Kurt. Advanced Aromatherapy – The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, 1995/1998, pp. 43-5, 116.

6 Arctander, Steffen. Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin, 1960, pp. 557-8.

7 Poucher, William A. Perfumes, Cosmetics & Soaps, 1930, p. 310.

8 Aromatherapy for the Family, Jan Kusmirek, ed., 1992, p. 47.

9 Arctander, Steffen. Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin, 1960, p. 559.

10 Price, Shirley and Len Price. Aromatherapy for Health Professionals, 2nd ed., 1995/1999, p. 342.

11 Schnaubelt, Kurt. Advanced Aromatherapy – The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, 1995/1998, p. 88.

The FDA has not evaluated the statements on this website. No claims are made by Holistic Pathways as to the medicinal value of any products from Holistic Pathways. The information presented here is for educating our customers about the traditional uses of essential oils and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. You are responsible for understanding the safe application of these products. If you have any questions, please call or email us for further information.