What is the difference between Rosemary essential oil and Rosemary oil?
Rosemary essential oil and rosemary oil are two terms that are usually confused by people and are used interchangeably but there is a huge difference between the two. The major differences between the two are the process of getting the out of rosemary leaves, the usage, and the texture which are discussed in detail below.
It is essential to have knowledge about the rosemary essence and extract in order to incorporate it appropriately into the hair care routine. Rosemary has numerous hair care benefits; using it correctly can change your hair game.
What is Rosemary Essential Oil?
Rosemary essential oil is derived by a process known as distillation. As a result of this steam distillation process, the essence of rosemary is obtained. A steam is made to pass through the rosemary, that steam then carries the essential oil into a condensation container. Rosemary essential oil is received in a water-plus-oil texture after condensation. Eventually, the resulting oil is highly concentrated and rich in the plant's active compounds. They must be diluted before being used on hair as it is highly volatile and concentrated and can cause itchiness and dryness in hair if used directly. Due to its high concentration, it is used scarcely. Rosemary essential oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
What is Rosemary Oil?
Rosemary oil is a type of oil that is extracted from the rosemary plant using carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. Rosemary oil is diluted in a carrier oil and is not as strong as rosemary essential oil which carries the rosemary essence. It is the rosemary extract. The oil is extracted by soaking the rosemary leaves in the carrier oil for several weeks. The resulting oil is then strained to remove any plant residue. The oil has a strong aroma and is often used in aromatherapy and massage therapy. It is also used in hair care as it is a great hair growth-boosting agent.
Differences Between Rosemary Oil and Rosemary Essential Oil
The main difference between rosemary oil and rosemary essential oil is;
- Method of extraction: Rosemary oil is extracted by soaking the plant material in a carrier oil, while rosemary essential oil is extracted using a distillation process.
- Texture: The texture of rosemary essential oil is watery whereas that of rosemary oil is oily/greasy.
- Benefits: Rosemary oil is often used for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, while rosemary essential oil is often used for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Usage: Rosemary essential oil is used by diluting a few drops in a carrier oil or shampoo in order to apply it to the scalp while rosemary oil is already in a diluted form and can be applied directly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rosemary and essential oils are two different types of oils derived from the rosemary plant. So while both come from the same plant, rosemary, one is described as a pure essential oil while the other one is an infused carrier oil with rosemary, It is important to identify them properly before using.